The 2025 FIDE Women’s World Championship kicked off in Shanghai with a strategic battle between defending champion Ju Wenjun and challenger Tan Zhongyi, and the first game ended in a gripping 39-move draw.
Tan, playing Black, confidently chose the Sicilian Defense, but Ju steered the game into calmer waters with a subtle approach. Chess legend Judit Polgar praised Tan’s resilience, saying, "She’s going to be a tough opponent for Ju!" Both players seemed content with a solid start, though fans might be hoping for fireworks—after all, their 2018 clash saw five straight decisive games after the opener!
A Battle of Nerves & Nuance
Ju, a seasoned champion, avoided risky lines, while Tan stayed cool under pressure. A key moment came with 18.Qe3!, where Ju tried to press, but Tan fired back with the slick 18...Qg5!, trading queens to deflate White’s ambitions.
Polgar gasped when Tan pushed 23...a4!, calling it the beginning of the end. Ju admitted post-game she saw the draw coming but wanted to test Tan’s defenses. Even a minor slip from Ju gave Tan a slight edge, but neither dared risk too much.
What’s Next?
Game 2 starts Friday, April 4, with Tan wielding the white pieces. If history repeats itself, we could be in for a wild ride—their last match exploded with five straight wins after the first draw!
For now, both players are happy with a peaceful start. But in chess, calm today could mean storm tomorrow!