Koneru Humpy to play Norway Chess Women’s competition in May | Chess News

Indian Chess player Koneru Humpy will return to play in the Norway Chess Women’s competition to be hosted in May later this year. “It’s an honor to play in the prestigious Norway Chess Women tournament,” Humpy was quoted as saying in a media release.
“Humpy’s achievements speak volumes, and we are delighted to welcome her back to Norway Chess Women 2025,” said Kjell Madland, Founder and Tournament Director of Norway Chess.
Humpy’s return to Norway Chess Women highlights her remarkable career, filled with significant milestones. In 2002, she became the first Indian woman to achieve the GM title, securing her place in chess hory. Today, she remains India’s top ranked women’s player in the country.
Contemplated retiring
A Rapid world champion in 2019, Koneru Humpy had contemplated retiring before she went on to pick the 2024 title.
She battled despairing results before turning it around right when it mattered. Humpy told PTI it had been a tough leadup. “In 2019, I was quite ambitious, waiting to win my first title. But this time it was different because since the start of the year, I didn’t do well in any of the tournaments.
“In fact, I was placed last in the last two tournaments. In reality, I was in a low state, I even thought to myself if I deserved to continue playing or not, whether it was time to retire,” she was quoted as saying after emerging the champion,” Humpy added.
She was also named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year in 2020, recognising her contributions to Indian sports. Her victories in the Olympiad, Asian Games, and Asian Championships have further confirmed her status as one of the top female players in chess.

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