Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 16: Vaishali Rameshbabu delivered a stellar performance to clinch the Women’s Candidates Tournament title, defeating Kateryna Lagno in the final round and finishing clear at the top with 8½ points.

With this victory, Vaishali has secured the right to challenge reigning world champion Ju Wenjun for the Women’s World Championship crown.

The final round witnessed high drama, with as many as six players still in contention for the title. Vaishali and Bibisara Assaubayeva were joint leaders going into the last round, while Zhu Jiner and others remained within striking distance, raising the possibility of tie-breaks.

However, Vaishali rose to the occasion, capitalising on an aggressive approach by Lagno, who needed a win while playing with the black pieces. The Indian Grandmaster gained an early advantage and maintained control throughout the game, sealing a convincing win and avoiding any playoff scenario.

In other results, Assaubayeva drew her game against Divya Deshmukh to finish second, while Zhu Jiner and Aleksandra Goryachkina shared third place.

Vaishali’s triumph marks a major milestone in her career and sets up a highly anticipated clash for the world title.