Young Bodhana Sivanandan Upsets Former World Champion
A remarkable achievement in the chess world has emerged from North London, where 10-year-old Bodhana Sivanandan, a British girl of Indian descent, has made headlines by defeating a former world champion. This victory not only highlights her exceptional talent but also marks a significant milestone in her burgeoning chess career.
Historic Victory at the European Club Cup
On Sunday, Sivanandan faced off against Mariya Muzychuk, a Grandmaster from Ukraine and former Women’s World Champion, during the European Club Cup held in Rhodes, Greece. Despite her team, She Plays to Win Lionesses, losing the match 3-1 to Turkish Airlines, Sivanandan’s victory over Muzychuk stands out as a remarkable upset. Muzychuk, ranked 13th in the world with a FIDE rating of 2485, was a formidable opponent, making Sivanandan’s win even more impressive given her own rating of 2205.
The chess community has widely celebrated Sivanandan’s achievement. English Grandmaster Danny Gormally remarked on her consistent performance, stating, “She seems to be beating a GM every week now!” Meanwhile, top-ranked Grandmaster David Howell called the win “incredible,” emphasizing the rarity of such a feat by a player so young. Former Women’s World Champion Susan Polgar also praised Sivanandan’s game, calling it “impressive.”
A Year of Record-Breaking Achievements
This victory is just one highlight in what has been a record-breaking year for Sivanandan. Earlier in 2025, she gained attention at the British Chess Championships in Liverpool, where she defeated 60-year-old Grandmaster Peter Wells. This win made her the youngest female player ever to defeat a Grandmaster, surpassing the previous record held by American Carissa Yip since 2019.
Born in London in 2015 to parents from Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, Sivanandan has been consistently rewriting the record books. In 2024, she achieved the title of Woman FIDE Master (WFM), and by July 2025, she became the youngest player to earn a Woman Grandmaster (WGM) norm, breaking the record previously held by the renowned Hou Yifan.
Representing England on the International Stage
In addition to her impressive victories, Sivanandan was selected to represent England at the Chess Olympiad in Hungary in 2024. This selection made her the youngest individual to represent England internationally in any sport, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the chess world.
Sivanandan’s rapid ascent is part of a broader resurgence of English chess talent. GM Danny Gormally noted the excitement surrounding this new generation of players, which includes talents like Bodhana, GM Shreyas Royal, FM Supratit Banerjee, and FM Ethan Pang. He expressed optimism about their potential, stating, “We don’t know just how strong they’ll become — but the potential is huge.”
FAQs
What age did Bodhana Sivanandan start playing chess?
Bodhana Sivanandan began playing chess at a very young age, showcasing her talent early on and quickly rising through the ranks.
How does Bodhana’s victory compare to other young chess players?
Bodhana’s victory over a former world champion at just 10 years old is unprecedented, making her one of the youngest players to achieve such a feat in chess history.
What are Bodhana’s future prospects in chess?
Given her rapid progress and numerous accolades, Bodhana Sivanandan is expected to continue making significant strides in the chess world, with many anticipating her future successes.
Conclusion
Bodhana Sivanandan’s recent victory against Mariya Muzychuk is a testament to her extraordinary talent and determination. As she continues to break records and gain recognition, the chess community eagerly awaits her future endeavors and contributions to the sport. With her remarkable achievements, Sivanandan is poised to become a prominent figure in chess for years to come.
Sivanandan’s victory comes at a time when chess is experiencing a surge in popularity, particularly among younger players. The rise of online platforms and streaming has made the game more accessible, allowing aspiring talents like Sivanandan to hone their skills and compete at higher levels. This environment has fostered a competitive spirit, encouraging young players to challenge established norms and pursue excellence.
As Sivanandan continues to develop her skills, her journey may inspire a new generation of chess enthusiasts. Her achievements not only highlight her individual talent but also reflect the growing diversity within the chess community. With her unique background and impressive accomplishments, Sivanandan serves as a role model for young players from various backgrounds, demonstrating that dedication and hard work can lead to success in the world of chess.
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