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India Chess Grandmaster Harika Dronavalli is in headlines for concluding her campaign in the fourth leg of the 2025 Nicosia FIDE Women’s Grand Prix with a podium finish. Harika finished as second runners-up after securing a stalemate with Ukraine’s Anna Muzychuk, who emerged as the winner of the competition after the final round of the tournament. The interesting part of the tournament was that all five matches ended in a draw. Following her appearance in nine rounds, Anna took the distinguished trophy home and also received the winner’s title. However, the Ukrainian was bound to share the crucial points and lucrative prize money with China’s Zhu Jinner.
Harika and Anna squared off against each other in 18 matches, with three victories bagged by the Indian player and 14 draws. Harika played the game to extend her winning streak. Anna required a stalemate to survive in contention for the top position. The 35-year-old performed an unconventional move but playable 5…Nh6 variation in the English Agincourt. Harika played it safe and traded her queens. After 40 moves, both finally agreed for a draw.
Divya Deshmukh finishes in seventh place
Harika’s compatriot Divya Deshmukh concluded her competition in the seventh spot as the 19-year-old settled for a draw with Germany’s Elisabeth Paehtz in the final round. Cyrus kicked off the game with the London system. The young Indian player chose to go for a lesser-known line. Following 15 moves the game was blocked.
After this competition, players will be travelling to Pune for the India Grand Prix, scheduled to be held from April 13 to 24. Dronavalli, and Deshmukh will see the joining seven other intimidating female players.
