Prime Minister Narendra Modi praises Grandmaster Koneru Humpy as a “sporting icon”

Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, the reigning FIDE Women’s World Rapid Chess Champion, received high praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi after her recent triumph in New York. Humpy, accompanied by her family, met with the Prime Minister who described her as a “sporting icon” and a source of inspiration for aspiring players.

Modi took to Twitter to express his admiration for Humpy, highlighting her sharp intellect and unwavering determination. He commended her for bringing immense pride to India and redefining excellence in the world of chess.

Humpy’s victory in the prestigious tournament in New York capped off a remarkable year for Indian chess, following other notable achievements such as D Gukesh’s win in the classical format World Championship and India’s historic gold medals in the Chess Olympiad.

The meeting with the Prime Minister was described by Humpy as a “once-in-a-lifetime privilege” and an unforgettable experience filled with inspiration and encouragement. She expressed her gratitude to Modi for the remarkable moment.

Having previously won the FIDE Women’s World Rapid Chess Championship in 2019, Humpy’s latest victory solidifies her status as one of the top players in the world. Her achievement in New York, where she overcame a first-round defeat to finish on top of the tables, further showcases her exceptional talent and determination in the game of chess.