Koneru Humpy Withdraws from Candidates Over Safety Fears
Image Source: Internet
Bengaluru: Koneru Humpy has officially withdrawn from the Women’s Candidates, citing safety concerns over playing in Cyprus due to the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran.
The world No.8 revealed her concerns to HT a week ago, informing the world chess governing body, Fide, of her decision on Sunday.
Her withdrawal now leaves two Indian women – Vaishali R and Divya Deshmukh – in the fray, with Ukrainian Grandmaster Anna Muzychuk eligible to take her place.
The tournament is scheduled from March 28 to April 16 and has raised concerns among players, including world No.2 Hikaru Nakamura, who wrote on X that it’s not a good sign when power goes out completely in parts of Cyprus.
Koneru Humpy expressed her decision, saying she prioritised her well-being and safety, and felt it was not the right time to hold the tournament amidst uncertainty.
