The chessboard has once again witnessed the brilliance of Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, who emerged as the Champion of the Pune FIDE Women’s Grand Prix with a spectacular score of 7/9. In a gripping final round, Humpy played a clutch game with the white pieces, defeating IM Nurgyul Salimova to claim her crown.

Hot on her heels was GM Zhu Jiner, who also showcased top-tier form with a win over IM Polina Shuvalova using the black pieces. Zhu too finished with 7/9, but tiebreaks nudged her into second place. Nonetheless, both champions will share the Grand Prix points and prize money—a fitting reward for two fierce fighters.

For Indian chess fans, this moment is extra special. Humpy’s journey over the past few months has been nothing short of legendary. From capturing the Women’s World Rapid Championship title in December, to sharing first place at the Monaco WGP, and now clinching victory at home in Pune—Humpy is unstoppable.

This latest triumph places her in a commanding position in the race for the next Women's Candidates Chess Tournament. If momentum had a name, it would be spelled H-U-M-P-Y.

We send our heartfelt congratulations to Koneru Humpy, her dedicated team, and her supportive family. She continues to inspire the chess community as a true stalwart of Indian chess—a legend who leads by example, with elegance, strength, and unmatched strategic prowess.

What a champion. What a journey.

— Team chess65