I see Total Chess as training for World Championship: Vaishali Rameshbabu

Vaishali Rameshbabu showcased her skills in a Total Chess pilot event, defeating Hans Niemann in a blitz game. The 24-player field includes Vaishali and Bibisara Assaubayeva as the only two women. In her interview with The Indian Express, Vaishali discussed her preparations for the upcoming Women’s World Chess Championship against reigning champion Ju Wenjun.

She explained that the Candidates tournament preparation was different as it involved playing seven players in a double round-robin, while the World Championship is a head-to-head match. Vaishali mentioned that she is enjoying the process of preparing for the World Championship and that she is constantly working on improving her game.

She has been working with a psychologist, which continues to be beneficial. Vaishali views the Total Chess pilot tournament as training for the World Championship, as it involves playing against strong players. She believes that competing against male players at this event will help her prepare for the strong female players she will face in the World Championship.