Budhana Sivanandan (Photo by John Saunders)
New Delhi: Indian-origin chess talent Boudhana Sivanandan has become the highest-rated player in England, according to the latest list released by the International Chess Federation. At just 11 years old, she now has a rating of 2366 and is ahead of four-time British Women’s Champion Lan Yao.
North London resident Boudhana’s journey is particularly remarkable given that she only picked up chess during the coronavirus lockdown.Her success did not stop at the national level, as Boudhana also entered the top 100 players in the world for the first time, and is currently ranked 72nd.
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Her rise has been described as extraordinary, especially for a young schoolgirl who started playing after discovering an old chess set at home. The story goes that her father was about to get rid of her, but that moment changed her life.She has already held the title of Woman International Master and continues to impress on the global stage. One of her standout moments came when she defeated former world champion Maria Mozychuk at a major European championship in Greece.Her achievement has been praised by many, including former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who shared a personal memory.
“Huge congratulations to Budhana Sivanandan for becoming the best chess player in England when she was just 11 years old. We played with each other in Downing Street Park. Let’s just say her success comes as no shock,” he said.Officials from the English Chess Federation also praised her influence. Chief executive Richard Walsh said: “She is blazing a trail not just for women and girls in the game, but for all chess players in England. In all sports, she must be one of the most incredible talents England has ever produced.”Thanks to her dedication and family support, Boudhana is already competing at the highest level, and her journey is just beginning.