Pratitee Bordoloi Makes History as India’s Sole Medallist at World Youth Chess Championship
Pratitee Bordoloi Becomes India’s Lone Medallist at World Youth Chess Championship
NEW DELHI: In a remarkable achievement for Indian chess, 13-year-old Woman FIDE Master (WFM) Pratitee Bordoloi has made headlines by clinching the silver medal in the Girls Under-18 category at the FIDE World Youth Chess Championship 2026 held in Montesilvano, Italy. This Bengaluru-based prodigy entered the tournament as the 16th seed with a FIDE rating of 2129 and delivered an unbeaten performance, amassing 9 points out of 11 rounds against competitors up to five years her senior.
Despite India fielding 13 players across six sections, Pratitee emerged as the sole medallist, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning chess career. This victory not only earned her the silver medal but also her first Woman International Master (WIM) norm and an impressive gain of over 129 Elo rating points.
The Kasparov Connection
Born on April 13, 2013—exactly 50 years after chess legend Garry Kasparov—Pratitee shares more than just a birthday with the six-time World Chess Champion. Her coach, Grandmaster Pravin Thipsay, notes that she exhibits tactical traits reminiscent of Kasparov. “Even in challenging situations, she plans meticulously to turn the game around,” Thipsay remarked in an exclusive interview.
However, Pratitee is not just a chess player; she is also a mathematical whiz, excelling in her studies. Her mother, Pranti Dutta Bordoloi, recalls how her daughter’s journey into chess began organically during the COVID-19 pandemic. With no formal training, a 9-year-old Pratitee stunned everyone by winning the 2022 Karnataka State Championship, followed by the National Under-9 title just six months later.
“She has always been exceptional at calculations,” Pranti shared. “I thought that if she excelled in math, she could also shine in chess.”
Focus on Independent Thinking
Pratitee’s maturity and analytical mindset set her apart from her peers. Thipsay emphasizes her ability to question and think critically, a trait that is crucial in chess. “She’s one of the few players who enjoys studying endings and finding precise moves because she approaches it logically,” he explained.
During the World Cadet Cup last year, where she won gold in the Under-12 Girls category, Pratitee developed a unique study routine with Thipsay. After her matches, she would request late-night classes to thoroughly prepare for her upcoming opponents. “Her dedication to learning is exceptional,” Thipsay noted.
Keeping the Pieces Grounded
Despite her rising fame, Pratitee remains grounded, adhering to a disciplined lifestyle that includes a 9-to-10-hour sleep cycle and physical training. With her mother holding a PhD in Artificial Intelligence and her father working in IT, the Bordoloi family prioritizes education alongside competitive chess.
Pranti instills in her daughter the importance of humility. “I always tell her to maintain composure after a win, as her opponent may be feeling disheartened,” she said.
When asked about her future aspirations, Pratitee expressed two desires: “I want to be a world champion,” she said, “but I also just want to play well.”
As Pratitee Bordoloi returns home with her silver medal, she not only brings pride to her family and country but also inspires a new generation of chess enthusiasts in India.