GM Kateryna Lagno Maintains Lead in 2025 Monaco FIDE Women’s Grand Prix Before Rest Day

GM Kateryna Lagno continues to lead the 2025 Monaco FIDE Women’s Grand Prix before the rest day after all games were drawn in round five. The competition is heating up as the top players battle it out for the prestigious title.

In a thrilling round five, GM Koneru Humpy let a big chance slip in a long game against GM Tan Zhongyi, while GM Aleksandra Goryachkina could have hoped for more when she made a 33-move draw by repetition against GM Harika Dronavalli. The tension is palpable as the players strive for victory in every game.

Round six is set to start on Monday, February 24, at 3 a.m. ET / 15:00 CET / 1:30 p.m. IST. The stakes are high as the players gear up for the next round of intense battles.

The final round before the rest day saw all games ending in draws, showcasing the players’ determination and skill on the board. IM Sara Khadem and GM Alexandra Kosteniuk engaged in a well-fought draw, while leader Lagno displayed her prowess by grabbing two pawns against IM Batkhuyag Munguntuul.

GM Elisabeth Paehtz’s aggressive play in the Najdorf Sicilian set the stage for an exciting game against IM Bibisara Assaubayeva, ultimately resulting in a draw. The clash between Tan and Humpy provided the closest we came to a decisive result, with both players showcasing their tactical prowess.

As the competition intensifies, all eyes are on the upcoming matches between Goryachkina and Humpy, as well as Lagno and Kosteniuk. The players are gearing up for the second half of the event, with exciting matchups on the horizon.

Stay tuned for more updates on the 2025 Monaco FIDE Women’s Grand Prix as the top players battle it out for victory and the chance to qualify for the 2026 FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament. Don’t miss the action-packed rounds ahead as the competition heats up in Monaco.