R Vaishali: Living the Dream as India’s New World Championship Challenger
R Vaishali Returns to Chennai as World Championship Challenger: A Dream Realized, Yet More to Achieve
CHENNAI: In the early hours of Sunday, R Vaishali touched down in Chennai, her heart still racing from the monumental achievement of becoming the new World Championship Challenger. At just 24, the young chess prodigy is savoring the moment but remains grounded, acknowledging that her journey is far from over.
“I feel like I’m living the dream,” Vaishali shared in an exclusive interview with Times of India. “But I still don’t think I have become one of the greatest women chess players from India. There’s a long way to go.” Drawing inspiration from stalwarts like Koneru Humpy and D Harika, she expressed her desire to carve out a legacy of her own. “They have played at the highest level for decades, even after becoming mothers. I hope to have a long journey like them.”
Vaishali’s ascent to the top comes at a time when Indian women’s chess is thriving. “I hope many girls will get inspired and take up chess professionally,” she said, reflecting on the recent successes of her peers. With Humpy’s World Rapid Championship win and Divya Deshmukh’s triumph at the World Cup, Vaishali believes the future is bright for female chess players in India.
However, her path to the Candidates Tournament was not without its challenges. Last year proved to be particularly tough, with mounting losses that took a toll on her confidence. “I walked into the FIDE Grand Swiss Tournament feeling weighed down and unprepared,” she admitted. Yet, it was that very event that turned her fortunes around, allowing her to defend her title and secure her spot in the Candidates.
Mental health, she emphasized, is crucial in the high-stakes world of chess. “I’ve been working with a psychologist for the past 7-8 months. Initially, I didn’t know what to do. I felt like I was working hard, but the results weren’t showing,” she explained. With the support of her family, coach RB Ramesh, and the Westbridge Anand Chess Academy, Vaishali found the strength to persevere.
Her brother, R Praggnanandhaa, also played a vital role in her journey. Despite facing his own challenges in the Open section of the Candidates, he remained a source of motivation. “He knows me better than anyone else,” Vaishali said, recalling how they discussed strategies during her campaign. “When I walked out after my win, I couldn’t control my emotions. Pragg was there, and it felt like we were very close to our dreams.”
Vaishali’s relationship with her coach, Ramesh, has evolved into a familial bond over the years. “He’s been with us for 11-12 years, supporting both me and Pragg,” she noted. Ramesh’s surprise visit to Cyprus, arriving just before the award ceremony, underscored the depth of their connection. “It’s incredible how much he cares about our journey,” she added.
As Vaishali prepares for the next chapter in her chess career, she is taking a moment to reflect on her achievements while keeping her eyes firmly set on the future. “We’ll take a break and then start preparing again,” she said, embodying the spirit of a true champion. With her determination and talent, R Vaishali is poised to inspire a new generation of chess players, proving that the game is not just for the elite but for anyone willing to dream big.