Reigning World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju congratulated Indian GM Vaishali Rameshbabu on her victory at the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026. Gukesh is happy that both will play for the World Championship title in 2026, and shares how he watched her decisive game at the tournament.

Gukesh Dommaraju

Gukesh Dommaraju

Reigning World Champion

“Vaishali, huge congrats!

I’ve always admired you, ever since the 2024 Candidates Tournament. I’m amazed by your character — the way you carry yourself through games and tournaments. I remember how tough 2025 was, but the way you came back truly shows incredible spirit. I’m so happy that we can both now fight for the top title!

I remember watching the last round of the Candidates… I was watching her game, and when Vaishali won, I literally screamed! It was so cool for me to see.

Let’s hope we both win our World Championship matches. We will do something special!”

The FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026 took place from March 28 to April 16, at the Cap St Georges Hotel and Resort in Pegeia, Cyprus. Indian GM Vaishali Rameshbabu won the tournament and became a candidate for the World Championship title. Vaishali finished last and didn’t win a game at the Chennai Grand Challengers in August 2025. In September 2025, Rameshbabu won the 2025 FIDE Grand Swiss and qualified for the 2026 Candidates.

Credit: ChessBase India Instagram