R Vaishali became the first Indian to win the FIDE Women\u2019s Candidates title, after she beat Russia\u2019s Kateryna Lagno in the final round on Wednesday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"A proud moment for #India in Cyprus. Heartiest congratulations to GM R. Vaishali @chessvaishali on her historic victory at the @Fide_Chess Women\u2019s Candidates 2026,\" High Commission of India in Cyprus shared on X. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"High Commissioner Mr. Manish @ManishGIfs and the entire team of @IndiainCyprus extend their warmest congratulations on this outstanding achievement. Finishing first with 8.5\/14, Vaishali has once again showcased India\u2019s growing strength in world #chess and secured her place in the upcoming Women\u2019s World #Championship match.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"Her #performance was a remarkable display of grit, composure and excellence. This #success is a matter of great #pride for India and a special moment for Cyprus as host of this #prestigious #global event. We wish her every success in the title match ahead,* it added. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
Vaishali will challenge Ju Wenjun for the Women\u2019s World Championship after winning the 2026 FIDE Women\u2019s Candidates outright with a score of 8.5\/14. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
In an exciting final round, Vaishali defeated Kateryna Lagno in a magnificent display of technique, while Bibisara Assaubayeva managed only a draw in her game against Divya Deshmukh.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Speaking at the postgame press conference, Vaishali expressed her delight: \u201cIt\u2019s amazing, a dream come true for me. When I lost to Zhu Jiner, everything suddenly opened up, and I\u2019m happy I was able to stay focused in the last two rounds and give my best.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In 2024, Gukesh D emerged as the Winner of the Candidates Tournament 2024 to become the youngest World Chess Championship challenger ever. He was rhe first ever Indian to win the Candidates. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
Speaking at the postgame press conference, Vaishali expressed her delight: \u201cIt\u2019s amazing, a dream come true for me. When I lost to Zhu Jiner, everything suddenly opened up, and I\u2019m happy I was able to stay focused in the last two rounds and give my best.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Gukesh will be challenged by newly-crowned FIDE Candidates 2026 winner Javokhir Sindarov.<\/p>\r\n\r\n