The FIDE World Rapid Chess 2025 in Doha has taken it to another level. PM Narendra Modi stepped in with heartfelt congratulations for two of our brightest stars, Arjun Erigaisi and Koneru Humpy, who both clinched bronze medals in their respective categories. Their achievements not only light up the chessboard but also inspire a nation that has become a powerhouse in the game.
Rapid Chess 2025: Delivering Fireworks Since The Beginning
The Rapid Chess 2025 in Doha was pure chess drama from start to finish. In the open section, young gun Arjun Erigaisi delivered a stellar performance, scoring 9.5 points to secure his maiden bronze. He finished just behind world No.1 Magnus Carlsen and Russian GM Vladislav Artemiev, marking him as only the second Indian male player, after the legendary Viswanathan Anand, to claim a podium spot in this prestigious rapid championship.
PM Modi praised Arjun’s grit on X, saying, “Proud of Arjun Erigaisi for winning the Bronze medal in the open section at the FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha. His grit is noteworthy. Wishing him the very best for his future endeavours.”
Koneru Humpy Still Going Strong, PM Narendra Modi Congratulates
Meanwhile, in the women’s section, Koneru Humpy showed why she remains a force to reckon with. As the defending champion, she tied for the lead with 8.5 points alongside Zhu Jiner and Aleksandra Goryachkina going into the final rounds. Though FIDE’s tie-break rules placed her in bronze after a playoff, her strong finish highlighted her unmatched dedication.
PM Narendra Modi commended her spirit, posting, “Congratulations to Koneru Humpy, who finished strongly at the 2025 FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Doha, securing the Bronze medal in the women’s section. Her dedication towards the game is commendable. Best wishes for the endeavours ahead.”
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These medals add serious weight to India’s growing chess legacy. From Anand’s trailblazing era to today’s young talents like Erigaisi, the country now boasts multiple Grandmasters dominating world stages. Humpy’s bronze caps her impressive record; she’s a former world rapid champion in 2019 and 2024, proving experience meets firepower perfectly. PM Modi’s timely shoutout underscores national pride, boosting morale as the World Blitz Championship kicks off right after in Doha. Stay tuned, chess fans; the board is set for even bigger battles!
Also read: World Rapid Chess 2025: Magnus Carlsen Reigns Again As Arjun Erigaisi Settle For Bronze
