India’s chess champion, Koneru Humpy, met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an experience she described as a “once-in-a-lifetime privilege.” The meeting, which took place on December 29. She shared her experience on the social media platform:It was an incredible honor to meet our esteemed Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi ji, alongside my family. The experience was truly unforgettable, filled with inspiration and encouragement. Thank you, sir, for this remarkable moment!”
In response to this, PM Modi, in his recent post, wrote, “Glad to have met Koneru Humpy and her family. She is a sporting icon and a source of inspiration for aspiring players. Her sharp intellect and unwavering determination are clearly visible. She has not only brought immense pride to India but has also redefined what excellence is.”
On December 29, Humpy clinched her second World Rapid title after a remarkable victory at the championship in New York. Humpy, who had a shaky start to the tournament, bounced back from a loss on Day 1 and rose to the top by Day 3, finishing with a remarkable 8.5 points out of 11. In the final round, she secured a decisive victory over Irene Sukandar, sealing her triumph.
PM Modi on social media congratulated her on her win, posting, “Congratulations to Koneru Humpy on winning the 2024 FIDE Women’s World Rapid Championship! Her grit and brilliance continue to inspire millions. This victory is even more historic because it is her second world rapid championship title, thereby making her the only Indian to achieve this incredible feat.”
PM Modi’s acknowledgment reflects the importance of Humpy’s achievement, which not only highlights her consistency but also her growing charisma in the world of chess.
This win was a historic one, as Humpy became only the second player in history, after China’s Ju Wenjun, to win the Women’s World Rapid Chess Championship title more than once.
Her first win came in 2019, when she won in Moscow, and now, in 2024, Humpy’s triumph in the World Rapid Championship is another proud moment for India’s chess community, coming just a few weeks after D Gukesh’s victory in the Chess World Championship.
