Alice Lee Dominates Semifinals to Reach Final of 2026 Women’s Speed Chess Championship
A Historic Victory for the 16-Year-Old IM
Women’s Speed Chess Championship Bracket
Semifinal Showdown: Alice Lee vs. Anastasia Avramidou
5+1 Section: Lee Takes Command
3+1 Section: Lee Maintains Momentum
1+1 Section: Lee Secures Final Spot
Quarterfinal Recap: Hou Yifan vs. Anna Muzychuk
5+1 Section: Tactical Battles
3+1 Section: Momentum Shifts
1+1 Section: Hou’s Dominance
Overview of the 2026 Women’s Speed Chess Championship
Alice Lee Dominates to Reach Final of 2026 Women’s Speed Chess Championship
In a stunning display of skill and determination, 16-year-old International Master Alice Lee has advanced to the final of the 2026 Women’s Speed Chess Championship after an impressive run of 11 wins in 12 games. Lee overwhelmed fellow competitor FM Anastasia Avramidou with a commanding score of 19.5 to 4.5 in the semifinals, showcasing her prowess in the fast-paced format.
Lee’s victory sets her up for a showdown against the winner of the other semifinal match between GM Bibisara Assaubayeva and GM Hou Yifan. The stakes are high, as the championship features a total prize fund of $75,000, with Lee already pocketing $7,250 for her semifinal triumph.
A Gripping Semifinal Match
Both Lee and Avramidou entered the semifinals with momentum, having narrowly won their respective quarterfinal matches. Lee had previously defeated Women’s World Champion Ju Wenjun 9.5-3.5, while Avramidou pulled off a surprising upset against speed chess legend GM Kateryna Lagno, winning 10.5-4.5.
The semifinal began with a promising start for Avramidou, who managed to secure a win in the first game. However, Lee quickly regained her footing, dominating the 5+1 section with a 6-1 lead. “I felt like I was managing my time pretty well,” Lee remarked, attributing her success to effective time management.
The Turning Point
As the match progressed, Lee’s confidence soared. She won the next four games in the 5+1 section, establishing a commanding 6-1 lead. The 3+1 section saw Lee continue her winning streak, taking the score to 14-3 before entering the final bullet segment.
Despite a brief resurgence from Avramidou, who managed to win the first bullet game, Lee quickly regained control, ultimately winning five more games and drawing three. “I don’t know if I was playing my best, but it’s simply the margins,” Lee said, reflecting on her performance.
A Historic Final Awaits
With her victory, Alice Lee becomes the youngest finalist in the history of the Women’s Speed Chess Championship. As she prepares to face either Assaubayeva or Hou, the chess community eagerly anticipates what promises to be an electrifying final.
The championship, which runs from July 6-31, features a single-elimination format with matches played at 5+1, 3+1, and 1+1 time controls. As the competition heats up, all eyes will be on Lee as she aims to secure her place in chess history.