2024 Julius Baer Women’s Speed Chess Championship Finalists: Polina Shuvalova and Ju Wenjun

The stage is set for an epic showdown in the 2024 Julius Baer Women’s Speed Chess Championship as IM Polina Shuvalova and four-time World Champion Ju Wenjun emerge as the finalists. Shuvalova secured her spot by defeating GM Vaishali Rameshbabu in a closely contested match, while Ju dominated her opponent, GM Kateryna Lagno, in a one-sided duel.

The Final is scheduled to begin on Thursday, September 5, at 8 a.m. ET / 14:00 CEST / 5:30 p.m. IST.

In the semi-finals, Shuvalova outlasted Vaishali with a score of 11.5-9.5 in a match that was predicted to be evenly matched. Despite Vaishali’s strong performance in the 3+1 portion, Shuvalova managed to maintain her lead throughout the match.

On the other hand, Ju Wenjun showcased her dominance by defeating Lagno with a score of 14.5-7.5. Ju’s performance in all three segments of the match was exceptional, as she outplayed her opponent in every phase of the game.

The Julius Baer Women’s Speed Chess Championship features some of the strongest female chess players competing for a $75,000 prize fund. The tournament format includes matches played at 5+1, 3+1, and 1+1 time controls, with players battling it out in a single-elimination bracket.

With Shuvalova and Ju Wenjun set to face off in the Final, chess fans can expect an intense and thrilling showdown between two of the best players in the world. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the championship.