Humpy's Disappointment: A Bronze Medal, a 'What If' Moment in World Rapid Championship

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Mumbai-based chess sensation Koneru Humpy's bid for a World Rapid title defence ended in a bronze medal, a bitter pill to swallow after a stellar undefeated run. The Indian chess icon, 38, drew her final round against Savitha Shri B from a winning position, missing out on the title by a hair's breadth. Humpy, the face of Indian women's chess for over two decades, expressed her understanding of the FIDE regulation that only the top two women advance to the tie-breaks, despite being tied for the top spot. However, she emphasized the need for uniformity across genders, advocating for a similar format as the men's section. The Indian chess player attributed her disappointment to a crucial blunder in the endgame, where she failed to convert a winning position into a gold medal. With less than a minute on the clock, Humpy's bishop move went awry, leading to a 64-move draw. She reflected on the incident, stating that it was her biggest mistake in the tournament and a result of nerves, emotions, and stress. Humpy, who has been in the sport for over two decades, acknowledged that managing pressure and emotions is a challenge, especially as she grows older. Despite the setback, she remains optimistic, having topped the FIDE Circuit leaderboard for women and looking forward to the Women's Candidates in March-April. In a candid interview, Humpy expressed her satisfaction with her performance, stating that it's 'very satisfying' to compete against the younger generation and come out on top. As she prepares for the next challenge, Humpy's dedication to the sport and her unwavering spirit serve as a testament to her enduring legacy in Indian chess.