Wadifa Aims to Become Bangladesh First Womens Grandmaster. Bangladesh’s chess scene is witnessing a groundbreaking achievement as tenth-grade student Wadifa has become the fourth Women’s International Master (WIM) of the country. As she breaks new ground with her ambition to be the first ever female Grandmaster (GM) of Bangladesh her victory at the Asian Zonal Championship is a landmark moment.
Wadifa’s road to success has been extraordinary. Despite the fact that no Bangladeshi WIM has ever made it to the GM level Wadifa is determined to change that. “My primary objective is to become the first women’s grandmaster in Bangladesh. She declared “after that I’ll strive to become a Grandmaster. I will do everything in my power to fulfill my dream.”
A Rising Star in the Chess World
Wadifa’s impressive performance in the Asian Zonal Championship secured her WIM title, a remarkable accomplishment. In chess, a player typically needs to achieve three WIM norms and a 2200 rating to earn the WIM title. However, Wadifa was able to secure her title with a 2091 rating, surpassing the newly lowered rating requirement of 2000. Her achievement is even more significant as she won the title by defeating Oshini and was guaranteed the victory on tiebreaks even before the final round. A FIDE Master who wins an Asian Zonal or World Cup qualifier automatically earns the WIM title without meeting the usual norms under FIDE rules. This rule was pivotal in Wadifa’s swift ascension to WIM status.
The Legacy of Bangladesh WIMs
Wadifa is following in the footsteps of previous trailblazers, including Rani Hamid who became Bangladesh first WIM in 1985 and Shamima Sultana Liza and Shirin Sultana who both followed decades later. While the country has produced talented WIMs none have yet reached the Grandmaster level. Wadifa’s statement to change this narrative demonstrates her determination and serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring female chess players in Bangladesh.
The Road to Grandmaster
Achieving the title of Grandmaster is no easy feat. To become a GM a player needs to earn three GM norms and a rating of 2500. For the Women’s Grandmaster (WGM) title the requirements are slightly lower: three WGM norms and a 2400 rating. Wadifa is eager to rise to these challenges and is already on track. Demonstrating an impressive level of play far beyond her years.
“I beat Oshini earlier. On tiebreaks my title was guaranteed even if she prevailed in her last round. In addition to winning the WIM title, this will allow me to compete in the World Cup. It’s amazing!” Wadifa expressing her excitement at qualifying for the prestigious tournament.
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A Bright Future Ahead
Wadifa’s achievements are not just limited to titles. Last year, she earned the opportunity to represent Bangladesh at the Junior World Championship in Montenegro as the national women’s champion, though visa issues prevented her participation. However her WIM title win has brought renewed hope as she now looks forward to representing her country on a global stage. Currently, Wadifa’s success stands as an inspiration for the next generation of female chess players in Bangladesh. With dreams of becoming a Grandmaster Wadifa is determined to make history and inspire others to break barriers.
Wadifa’s historic achievement marks a new chapter in Bangladesh’s chess journey. As she continues to chase her dreams of becoming the first female Grandmaster in Bangladesh her success serves as a testament to hard work, perseverance and the limitless potential of young talent. With her determination and remarkable skills. Wadifa is poised to make her mark on the global chess stage.
Source: The Business Standard
