Grand Finale in Chongqing: Ju Wenjun Wins Her Fifth World Chess Title
The 2025 FIDE Women’s World Championship Grand Finale in Chongqing. Match ended on April 18 with a grand closing ceremony. The event celebrated a thrilling match between two of China’s strongest players: Ju Wenjun and Tan Zhongyi.
Held at the Jinke Grand Hotel, the ceremony marked the end of an exciting chess battle. It also showed how chess can bring together people, cities, and cultures.
A Celebration of Chess and Champions
The ceremony began with the national anthem of China and the official FIDE anthem. A video was shown, highlighting emotional and powerful moments from the match. Viewers saw everything—from the calm opening draws to the dramatic final game that crowned Ju Wenjun champion once again. The final scene was the stunning Phoenix Coronet trophy, a symbol of prestige and victory.
Honored Guests and Leaders
Many key figures attended the event, including:
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Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board
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Zhu Chen, FIDE Treasurer
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Zhao Aiguo, Deputy Director of China QIYUAN
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Du Xueyong, Deputy Director of Chongqing Sports Administration
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Liu Shizhen, President of the Shanghai Board and Card Games Center
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Wang Yaping, Deputy Mayor of Fuling District
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Dong Yifeng, Mayor of Fuling District
Their presence showed the importance of the event on both national and global levels.
Speeches of Pride and Progress
Mayor Dong Yifeng praised the organization and spirit of the match. He highlighted the teamwork between Shanghai and Chongqing, and wished for the game of chess to grow across the world.
Mr. Zhao Aiguo also spoke, emphasizing the rise of women’s chess in China and its growing global impact.
Ju Wenjun Crowned World Champion
Chief Arbiter Sabrina de San Vicente officially announced the winner: Ju Wenjun. She claimed her fifth consecutive Women’s World Championship title, a historic achievement.
The award ceremony followed. Tan Zhongyi received the runner-up award. Ju Wenjun was presented with the Phoenix Coronet trophy, a medal, and a laurel crown. She thanked her supporters and team, including GM Ni Hua, GM Maxim Matlakov, and WGM Wang Pin. Ju described her victory as “deeply meaningful.”
Honoring Teamwork and Tradition
FIDE also presented special awards:
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“Outstanding Organization Award” to Shanghai and Chongqing
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“Outstanding Venue Award” to Fuling District
In return, Fuling gifted FIDE a replica of the championship trophy—symbolizing their unity and support for chess.
A Powerful Closing Message
Dana Reizniece gave the final speech. She praised both Ju and Tan for their courage and determination. “Chess is silent,” she said, “but the moves spoke volumes.”
She added that this match was not only about who won—but about the beauty, intensity, and global reach of chess. It was a match to remember, filled with drama, brilliance, and respect.
Reizniece ended with a strong message about the future of women’s chess. She promised more support, more tournaments, and bigger prize funds. She called on China and the world to keep supporting the game that builds bridges and opens doors.
A Grand Finale
The match officially ended as all guests pressed a ceremonial “closing button.” The celebration wrapped up with a traditional Emei Sword Dance, group photos, and a banquet.
The 2025 Women’s World Championship will be remembered not just for who won—but for the excitement, the emotions, and the message it sent: chess is for everyone, and its future is bright.
Photos: Anna Shtourman, FIDE_chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
