(Chess News) At the IV El Llobregat Open tournament in Spain, Vaishali Rameshbabu secured a significant victory against FM Tamer Selbes, a match with broader implications. This triumph propelled Vaishali’s rating points beyond 2500, earning her a coveted spot in the exclusive Indian Grandmaster club, which currently comprises 84 members. Additionally, Vaishali joined an even more exclusive group – Indian women who have achieved the grandmaster title, a trio that includes Koneru Humpy, Harika Dronavalli, and now Vaishali.

Attaining the pinnacle of chess, symbolized by the grandmaster title, not only represents a monumental accomplishment for V Rameshbabu but also serves to distance her from the label of being primarily known as ‘Praggnanandhaa’s sister,’ a characterization that has persisted over the years. While Vaishali initiated her chess journey, it was her younger brother who garnered attention in the chess world, achieving milestones such as becoming the youngest international master globally.

In just over a month, V Rameshbabu has realized childhood aspirations with remarkable ease, clinching a spot in the prestigious Candidates Tournament by triumphing in the fiercely competitive FIDE Grand Swiss tournament and attaining the coveted grandmaster title. Grandmaster RB Ramesh, a mentor for both siblings, acknowledges the impact Praggnanandhaa’s success had on Vaishali initially, noting the challenge of being overshadowed. However, recent achievements, including qualification for the Candidates and the grandmaster title, affirm Vaishali’s individual prowess.

While Pragganandhaa’s sister achieved the grandmaster status later than her brother, her early chess prowess surfaced a decade ago when she defeated Magnus Carlsen in an exhibition game during the World Chess Championship in Chennai. Despite Praggnanandhaa’s subsequent rise to fame, her earlier victory against Carlsen in 2013 showcased her talent when she was just 12.

Looking ahead, Vaishali’s next formidable challenge is the upcoming Candidates tournament. Success in this competition would pave the way for her participation in the Women’s World Championships, adding another significant milestone to her already impressive chess career. Ramesh emphasizes that Vaishali has demonstrated success in major events, such as winning a medal at the FIDE Chess Olympiad, making the Candidates tournament the remaining major target on her ambitious chess journey.

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