Alina Kashlinskaya Clinches Sole First Place in 2024 Tbilisi FIDE Women’s Grand Prix

Alina Kashlinskaya emerged victorious in the 2024 Tbilisi FIDE Women’s Grand Prix after defeating GM Mariya Muzychuk in the final round. This win not only earned her €18,000 (~$20,000) but also 130 Grand Prix points and a second GM norm. Kashlinskaya’s stellar performance in the tournament showcased her exceptional skills on the chessboard.

The final standings saw Kashlinskaya clinch the title, with IM Bibisara Assaubayeva securing second place. GMs Anna Muzychuk and Nana Dzagnidze, along with IM Stavroula Tsolakidou, shared third place in the tournament. The final round witnessed two decisive games, with Kashlinskaya’s victory over Mariya Muzychuk being the highlight of the event.

Kashlinskaya, who recently became a mother, has been on a winning streak, having also won the Polish Women’s Championship earlier this year. Her impressive performance in the Tbilisi Grand Prix has brought her closer to achieving the grandmaster title, with just one more norm needed to secure the prestigious title.

Despite Assaubayeva’s decision to settle for a draw in the final round, she still managed to secure second place in the tournament, earning 105 Grand Prix points and €13,000. The players who shared third place had contrasting final rounds, with Anna Muzychuk opting for a draw and Tsolakidou coming close to victory before settling for a draw.

Nana Dzagnidze showcased her fighting spirit by bouncing back from a defeat in the penultimate round to secure a win in the final round. Her determination and resilience throughout the tournament were commendable.

As the first leg of the 2024-2025 FIDE Women’s Grand Prix, the Tbilisi event set the stage for an exciting series of competitions to come. With the ultimate goal of finishing in the top two and qualifying for the 2026 FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament, players are gearing up for the next event in Shymkent, Kazakhstan.

The 2024 Tbilisi FIDE Women’s Grand Prix was a testament to the skill and determination of the players, with Kashlinskaya emerging as the deserving champion. The competitive spirit and strategic gameplay displayed throughout the tournament captivated chess enthusiasts worldwide, setting the stage for an exhilarating season of women’s chess.