Anna Muzychuk Wins WGP Cyprus in Thrilling Finish
The Cyprus Women’s Grand Prix has come to an exciting end after nine intense rounds.
The final round was filled with drama, even though all five games ended in draws. The tournament winner, Anna Muzychuk, was only decided at the very last moment due to multiple factors.
Zhu Jiner missed a winning chance against Nana Dzagnidze, while Olga Badelka could not convert a massive advantage against Stavroula Tsolakidou.
Anna Muzychuk and Zhu Jiner both performed exceptionally well, finishing tied at 6/9. They left Harika Dronavalli, Aleksandra Goryachkina, and Mariya Muzychuk a full point behind.
Anna took home the trophy and the title, while the prize money and WGP points were shared with Zhu Jiner.
After the ceremony, Anna expressed her joy:
“I am very happy to win this event. The last time I shared first place in a tournament was thirteen years ago, so this is special. I thank the organizers for the great conditions and everyone who supported me.”
Regarding her chances to qualify for the Candidates Tournament, Anna remained cautious:
“This win helps, but nothing is certain yet. I will prepare well for Austria and hope for the best.”
Final Round Highlights
Mariya Muzychuk vs. Aleksandra Goryachkina ½-½
Both players came well-prepared. Mariya faced the Berlin Defense in the Ruy Lopez, choosing a known drawish line. Goryachkina, a strong opening player, avoided risks and equalized easily. A queen trade led to a drawn rook endgame with an incredible 99% accuracy score.
Goryachkina finished with a solid undefeated +1 score, gaining valuable Grand Prix points for the Women’s Candidates Tournament.
Elisabeth Paehtz vs. Divya Deshmukh ½-½
Elisabeth, possibly playing her last classical tournament, used the London System. Divya responded with a rare but effective line. The game was blocked after 15 moves, and soon ended in a draw by repetition.
Elisabeth seemed eager to finish the tournament, but missed a possible advantage after a queen exchange. Divya, slightly under her expected score, still gained valuable experience.
Harika Dronavalli vs. Anna Muzychuk ½-½
These players have faced each other since childhood, with Harika holding a slight edge. Anna needed at least a draw to stay in contention for first place.
To mix things up, Anna chose a rare but playable line in the English Opening. Harika played safely, trading queens early. The game ended in a drawn rook endgame, with accuracy levels reaching 99%.
Olga Badelka vs. Stavroula Tsolakidou ½-½
Stavroula admitted she was “so lucky” to escape with a draw. Olga had a winning move (36.Qg5) but missed it, allowing Stavroula to defend.
Despite still having an advantage, Olga struggled to convert, and the game ended in a drawn rook endgame. The saying “All rook endings are drawn” proved true once again!
Zhu Jiner vs. Nana Dzagnidze ½-½
Zhu Jiner, aware that Anna had drawn her game, fought hard for a win. She played an endgame with a rook against three passed pawns but could not break through Nana’s strong defense.
Nana’s accuracy was an incredible 97%, showing her resilience. Zhu believed she had missed a win but still secured an excellent result, tying for first and earning 50% of the prize money.
What’s Next?
The next Grand Prix event will take place in Pune, India, from April 13 to April 24. Zhu Jiner, Harika Dronavalli, and Divya Deshmukh will compete alongside seven other top players.
For more information, live games, and updates, visit the official website: womengrandprix.fide.com
Photos: Anna Volkova, FIDE_chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
