What Is Candidates Tournament And Why It Matters

If you’re following headline news lately, you probably know that Divya Deshmukh just made history as the first Indian teenager in 34 years to qualify for the prestigious Candidates Tournament. But what’s the big deal about this event, and why does everyone care so much? Let’s find out.

Why It Matters

The Candidates Tournament is always a big story, but when someone like Divya qualifies, beating world champions, it shines an even brighter spotlight on the event. That’s because this tournament is like the golden gateway to glory: whoever wins it gets to challenge the current World Chess Champion, and potentially become a world champion themselves.

So, What Exactly Is The Candidates Tournament?

The Candidates Tournament is a chess tournament organized by FIDE, the global chess body, running since 1950. The format includes eight of the world’s best players who face off in a double round-robin. Everyone plays everyone else twice, once as white and once as black.

How to qualify?

Players get in through epic performances in events like the World Cup, Grand Swiss, by having the highest FIDE ratings, or through special circuits. In short, you don’t just stumble into the Candidates. Only the best, most in-form players make it. And now, Divya’s one of them.

Why Does It Matter?

It’s important because it decides the next World Championship challenger; winning the Candidates means you’re next in line to try and take the chess crown. And that chance comes only once every two years. Every game is high-pressure. A single mistake can cost years of hard work. It’s a stage for new stars to shine as past winners have gone on to shape chess history, and now young guns like Divya Deshmukh have a shot to join that list.

Why All The Headlines Over Divya Deshmukh?

Because it’s rare and inspiring. Divya had to defeat some of the best, including ex-world champions like Tan Zhongyi and top seeds, in back-to-back must-win games. She isn’t just going to the Candidates; she’s changing the chess landscape, proving India’s dominance.

Also Read: After World Number 1, Divya Deshmukh Defeats Another Top-Rated Player