World Rapid Chess Championship: Humpy and Divya surge into joint lead after round seven

Indian challengers set the pace in women’s rapid

A decisive seventh round vaulted Koneru Humpy and Divya Deshmukh into the eight-player leading pack of the women’s rapid. Humpy converted a precise endgame against Yana Zhapova, and Divya scored a marquee win over Antoaneta Stefanova, underlining India’s depth in elite rapid play. In the open section, Russia’s Vladislav Artemiev seized sole lead after stunning top seed Magnus Carlsen; a large chasing peloton on 5.5 includes India’s D. Gukesh and Nihal Sarin, keeping the title race wide open heading into day three. 

Key highlights and notable updates

Women’s leaders: Humpy and Divya among eight at the top after round seven. 

Signature wins: Humpy defeats Yana Zhapova; Divya beats Antoaneta Stefanova. 

Open section lead: Vladislav Artemiev moves ahead after beating Magnus Carlsen. 

Indian contenders: Gukesh and Nihal Sarin in the 5.5-point pack; multiple Indians close behind on five. 

Remaining rounds: Six rounds still to play, setting up a tight finish in both sections. 

Sources: Sportstar (The Hindu Group); Firstpost (PTI report).