World Rapid and Blitz Doha is about to prove that women’s chess isn’t just about slow classical battles. The World Rapid and Blitz 2025 in Doha brings together the sharpest minds in fast chess, with a million-euro prize fund and 300,000 euros set aside for the women’s events. These top 10 players aren’t just competing, they’re fighting for glory in a format where one sharp move can turn the tide.
World Rapid and Blitz Doha Lineup: Top 10 Women Players
Ju Wenjun leads as the top seed in the World Rapid and Blitz with a rapid rating of 2530. She defended her Women’s World Championship title in April 2025, crushing Tan Zhongyi 6.5-2.5, and dominated New York’s Blitz last year. Calm under pressure, she’s the benchmark everyone fears in rapid and blitz.
Tan Zhongyi, second at 2507, brings fighter’s fire after winning the 2024 Candidates. She pushed Ju hard in their title match and stays near the top across formats. Her knack for defending tough spots makes her a rapid threat.
Aleksandra Goryachkina (2505) shines as Grand Prix leader, winning Tata Steel India Rapid and events in Shymkent and Monaco. Strong in open fields, her positional play and endgame skill make her a quiet killer.
Lei Tingjie (2496) nearly grabbed the 2023 title and reached the New York Blitz final. Tough in tiebreaks, like her 2025 World Cup semi against Humpy Koneru, she thrives in open, calculating positions.
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Bibisara Assaubayeva (2461), the new grandmaster, owns two Blitz world titles and a Guinness World Record. Aggressive and quick, her style fits Doha’s chaos perfectly after strong New York showings.
Veteran Kateryna Lagno (2452) holds rapid and multiple blitz crowns. She won Tata Steel Blitz 2024 and reached deep in New York, blending prep with tactical instinct.
Alexandra Kosteniuk (2450), 2008-2010 champ, loves attacks. Sixth in 2024, Rapid and strong in Grand Prix, she grabs the initiative even on the clock.
Humpy Koneru (2448), reigning Rapid champ, claimed New York gold after a shaky start. Solid openings and technique carried her to the World Cup final, earning a Candidate’s spot.
Harika Dronavalli (2435) led India’s Olympiad gold and shared the New York Rapid lead. A tiebreak specialist, she beat Lagno before the quarterfinals exit.
Zhu Jiner (2435), Grand Prix winner, qualified for the Candidates with consistent wins. Calm yet sharp, she pushed hard in World Cup tiebreaks.
This World Rapid and Blitz Doha lineup defines women’s chess surge—champs, risers, Indians like Humpy and Harika shining bright. Doha promises drama; one crown awaits. Stay tuned as rapid and blitz unfold.
Also read: Prague Challengers 2026: Zhu Jiner vs Divya Deshmukh
