10-Year-Old British Chess Prodigy Becomes Youngest Female to Defeat a Grandmaster

Published Time: 08-16-2025, 14:00

A young chess talent from London has etched her name into history books after defeating a seasoned grandmaster at just 10 years old. Bodhana Sivanandan’s remarkable victory not only broke a longstanding record but also highlighted her rise as one of the most promising figures in international chess.

Historic Victory in Liverpool

Bodhana Sivanandan, a 10-year-old player from northwest London, stunned the chess community on Sunday by defeating grandmaster Pete Wells, 60, during the final round of the 2025 British Chess Championships held in Liverpool.

According to the International Chess Federation (FIDE), Sivanandan, who is just 10 years, five months, and three days old, is now the youngest female player ever to beat a grandmaster in a classical tournament game. The record was previously held by American Carissa Yip, who achieved the milestone in 2019 at 10 years, 11 months, and 20 days.

Chess enthusiasts and experts have described the achievement as a defining moment, noting the maturity and tactical depth displayed by such a young competitor.

A Rapid Rise Through the Ranks

With this victory, Sivanandan has now earned the title of Woman International Master (WIM), a significant step toward the higher titles available in professional chess. The WIM ranking is one level below Woman Grandmaster (WGM), a female-exclusive designation. Above these lies the most prestigious title in the sport — Grandmaster (GM) — currently held by leading figures such as reigning World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju and former World Champion Magnus Carlsen, the world’s top-ranked player.

Her achievement at such a young age underscores the growing diversity and inclusivity within chess, which has traditionally been dominated by older and more experienced competitors.

Early Beginnings During the Pandemic

In an interview with the BBC last year, Bodhana’s father revealed that no one in their family had a history of competitive chess. Her introduction to the game happened by chance during the Covid-19 pandemic when she was five years old.

“One of my dad’s friends gave us some toys and books,” Bodhana explained in a BBC interview. “In one of the bags, I saw a chessboard, and I was interested in the pieces. At first, I wanted to use them as toys, but my dad suggested I learn the game instead. That’s how it all started.”

This spontaneous discovery quickly turned into a passion. Within a few short years, her skills developed rapidly, earning her recognition in local and national tournaments before making her way into international competitions.

Recognition and Support from the Chess Community

Bodhana’s victory has been celebrated widely across the global chess community. Experts have praised her tactical awareness, composure under pressure, and ability to calculate complex positions at an age when most children are only beginning to learn the basics.

Chess coaches and analysts note that early exposure to competitive play combined with consistent practice has been key to her success. Her performance at the British Chess Championships is expected to open doors for her to compete in elite-level tournaments across Europe and beyond.

A New Era for Young Female Players

Her accomplishment carries particular significance for young female players in chess, a field where gender imbalance has long been recognized. According to FIDE statistics, women still represent a small minority of competitive chess players worldwide, and very few hold grandmaster titles compared to their male counterparts.

By setting this new record, Bodhana Sivanandan provides inspiration for aspiring female players around the globe. Experts suggest that her success could help encourage more young girls to take up the game and pursue competitive opportunities.

Looking Ahead

While she has already broken barriers, Sivanandan’s journey in chess is only just beginning. Her new WIM title provides a foundation to build on, and many in the chess community believe she has the potential to reach even greater heights in the coming years.

Whether or not she chooses to pursue the prestigious grandmaster title, her victory in Liverpool has already established her as one of the brightest young stars in the sport.

A Moment of Pride for British Chess

Sivanandan’s success adds to the growing recognition of British chess talent on the international stage. Her historic win not only cements her personal achievement but also shines a spotlight on the United Kingdom’s role in fostering young talent in the game.

As Bodhana continues her journey, her story stands as a testament to perseverance, curiosity, and the limitless possibilities that come when passion meets opportunity.