Koneru Humpy's Triumphant Encounter with PM Modi

Grandmaster Koneru Humpy met Prime Minister Narendra Modi following her victory in the FIDE Women's World Rapid Chess Championship. Humpy's win marked a successful year for Indian chess. Previously, she became the second player to win this title twice, following Ju Wenjun. India recently excelled in the Chess Olympiad.

Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, accompanied by her family, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, celebrating her victory in the FIDE Women's World Rapid Chess Championship. Describing the encounter as a 'once-in-a-lifetime privilege,' Humpy added another accolade to a stellar year for Indian chess.

Humpy triumphed over Indonesia's Irene Sukandar in New York, securing her place as a two-time champion of the prestigious event, a feat previously achieved only by China's Ju Wenjun. In her statement, Humpy expressed gratitude for the momentous opportunity to meet the Prime Minister, highlighting the inspiration it brought her.

The year has seen remarkable successes in Indian chess, with D Gukesh defeating China's Ding Liren in Singapore, and India achieving its first-ever gold medals in both Open and Women's categories at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest. Humpy's tenacity shone in New York, where, despite an initial round loss, she emerged as the sole winner in the final round, finishing with 8.5 points.

(With inputs from agencies.)