Indian Chess Stars Vidit Gujrathi and R Vaishali Secure Tickets to Prestigious Candidates Tournament

In a moment of immense pride for India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has showered praise on the nation’s chess prodigies, Vidit Gujrathi and R Vaishali, for their remarkable success in the FIDE Grand Swiss chess event. Both of these exceptional chess players clinched the top titles on offer and, in doing so, have secured their places in the prestigious 2024 Candidates Tournament, slated to commence in Toronto.

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Despite a setback in the 11-round event, Vidit displayed true sportsmanship by bouncing back and delivering a commanding performance in the final round on Sunday. He secured a convincing victory against Serbian chess grandmaster Alexandr Predke, which catapulted him to the top spot with a total of 8.5 points. Vidit Gujrathi’s remarkable comeback and top-tier performance have earned him a well-deserved ticket to the highly anticipated Candidates Tournament.

R Vaishali, a formidable talent in the women’s chess circuit, had already secured her place in the Candidates Tournament one day prior to Vidit’s triumph. Vaishali’s consistent and impressive gameplay throughout the FIDE Grand Swiss event was a testament to her exceptional skills. She sealed her spot with a strong showing and a draw in the final round against Batkhuyag Munguntuul.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to express his joy and admiration for these exceptional chess players. He tweeted, “A moment of immense pride as India takes the top spot in the FIDE Grand Swiss Open. Congratulations to @viditchess and @chessVaishali for their outstanding victories, and for securing their spots in the prestigious 2024 Candidates, to be held in Toronto. This is yet another instance of Indian prowess in Chess. India is truly elated.”

A moment of immense pride as India takes the top spot in the FIDE Grand Swiss Open.

Congratulations to @viditchess and @chessVaishali for their outstanding victories, and for securing their spots in the prestigious 2024 Candidates, to be held in Toronto.

This is yet another… pic.twitter.com/GgbsWa48D6

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 6, 2023

The achievements of Vidit Gujrathi and R Vaishali have not only captured the attention of the chess world but have also highlighted the remarkable prowess of Indian chess players. India’s rich chess heritage has seen a surge in talent and success on the international stage, and Vidit and Vaishali’s journey to the Candidates Tournament is a testament to the dedication and hard work they have put into their craft.

The Candidates Tournament, often regarded as one of the most prestigious events in the world of chess, is a crucial stepping stone for players aspiring to challenge the reigning World Chess Champion. The 2024 edition, scheduled to be held in Toronto, will bring together some of the finest minds in the game, and Vidit Gujrathi and R Vaishali’s inclusion in this elite competition is a remarkable achievement for Indian chess.

As the chess fraternity eagerly awaits the 2024 Candidates Tournament, the spotlight will undoubtedly shine on Vidit Gujrathi and R Vaishali as they represent India with their exceptional skills and unwavering determination. Their journey to this elite competition is not only a personal triumph but also a source of inspiration for aspiring chess players across the nation.