Desk Correspondent , New Delhi - India’s R Vaishali has written a new chapter in chess history by winning the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026, becoming the first Indian woman to claim the title. With this victory, she has earned the right to challenge China’s reigning world champion Ju Wenjun for the Women’s World Chess Championship later this year.

Vaishali sealed the landmark win with a strong final round performance against Kateryna Lagno, finishing the tournament with an outright lead after a tense final day. Her victory is being celebrated as a major milestone for Indian chess, especially because she entered the event without being among the top favourites and still delivered under pressure. The win also strengthens India’s growing presence in elite women’s chess, adding to a remarkable run of international success by Indian players in recent years.

Vaishali’s triumph is more than an individual achievement, it is a historic moment for Indian sports and a boost for the next generation of chess talent. Now, all eyes will be on her world title showdown against Ju Wenjun as she takes another big step onto the global stage.