8-Year-Old Schoolgirl Emerges Best Female Chess Player in Europe

In a remarkable achievement, an eight-year-old British schoolgirl, Bodhana Sivanandan, from Harrow, northwest London, has secured the title of Europe's top female chess player. She attained this feat after winning the European Rapid and Blitz Championships in Zagreb, Croatia.

Starting her chess journey at the age of five during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sivanandan showcased exceptional skills by defeating England's women's coach, 39-year-old Lorin D'Costa, in the penultimate round. Her outstanding performance garnered praise from fellow players and chess pundits, with many commending her mature and strategic play.

READ ALSO: 75-Year-Old South African Grandmother Achieves Master’s Degree, Sets Sights on PhD

Impressively, Sivanandan faced seasoned competitors in the quick and blitz rounds, including a notable victory against two-time Romanian champion Vladislav Nevednichy, 54, in the final round.

International Master Irina Bulmaga, present at the competition, described the eight-year-old's performance as "unbelievable," emphasizing her achievement of securing the first prize among women. Chess pundit and International Master Lawrence Trent expressed confidence in Sivanandan becoming one of England's best players, noting her mature playing style and exceptional talent.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU: LASU First-Class Graduate Emerges Overall Best Student in ICAN Examination

Dominic Lawson, the president of the English Chess Federation, described Sivanandan's performance as "completely remarkable" and acknowledged her long-game strategy. Sivanandan is currently ranked as the world's third-highest-rated classical chess player born in 2015.

This extraordinary accomplishment by Bodhana Sivanandan highlights her exceptional talent and promises a bright future in the world of chess.