The Norway Chess Women’s Tournament 2025 promises fierce competition. World No. 8 Anna Muzychuk, a Ukrainian Grandmaster, predicts an unpredictable showdown. Top players like World Champion Ju Wenjun, India’s Koneru Humpy, and rising star Lei Tingjie will compete. With equal prize money for men and women, this event sets a global standard. Muzychuk, last year’s runner-up, expects thrilling matches.
Norway Chess Women’s Tournament: A Star-Studded Lineup
Muzychuk calls this the strongest women’s chess event, citing the high ratings of participants. “Each participant has a real chance to win it,” she says. The lineup includes Vaishali R, Sarasadat Khademalsharieh, and Muzychuk’s sister, Mariya, a Grandmaster. Held in Stavanger from May 26 to June 6, the tournament features a $70,000 prize fund, per norwaychess.no. Equal pay motivates players, says Muzychuk. “It will give additional motivation to all the girls around the world.” Expect intense battles as every move counts.
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From Ukraine to Global Stages: Muzychuk’s Journey
Anna Muzychuk’s chess journey began in Ukraine, where chess thrives. Born in 1990, she trained under her coach parents alongside Mariya. “Chess was quite popular,” she recalls. Their hometown produced many Grandmasters. Anna became a Grandmaster at 22, winning Blitz and Rapid world titles. She narrowly missed the Classical World Championship in 2017. Balancing life and chess remain tough. “It’s always difficult,” she admits, focusing on her career while enjoying music and learning languages. Her advocacy for equal rights shines, praising Norway Chess for equal pay.
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