Uzbek Prodigy Sindarov Becomes Youngest Champion in FIDE World Cup 2025

Javokhir Sindarov Scripts History, Becomes Youngest FIDE World Cup Champion

Uzbek chess sensation Javokhir Sindarov has etched his name into global chess history by becoming the youngest-ever FIDE World Cup Champion , triumphing in a dramatic finale held in Goa. The 2025 event featured 206 elite competitors , making it one of the most widely contested World Cup editions to date.

Sindarov faced China’s leading grandmaster Wei Yi in a high-pressure final. After both classical games ended in draws, the title was decided through rapid tiebreaks , where Sindarov displayed remarkable resilience and accuracy to secure the championship. The victory marks a monumental milestone in the 19-year-old’s career, positioning him firmly among the top young chess talents of the modern era.

Road to Glory and Tournament Highlights

Sindarov’s path to the crown required overcoming several top-ranked opponents across multiple rounds. Meanwhile, Andrey Esipenko of Russia claimed third place by defeating Nodirbek Yakubboev 2–0 , earning a place in the upcoming Candidates Tournament . The ceremonial first move of the final encounter was made by Indian chess legend GM Dibyendu Barua , adding national significance to the event hosted on home soil.

The World Cup also delivered unforgettable moments — from José Martínez’s upset over Abdusattorov to Frederik Svane’s win against World Champion Gukesh D , alongside dramatic blunders and rapid-fire turnarounds that defined the month-long competition.

Exam-Point Quick Facts

• Javokhir Sindarov — youngest FIDE World Cup champion .

• Venue — Goa, India ; 206 players participated.

• Andrey Esipenko finished third and qualified for Candidates.

• Indian GM Dibyendu Barua played ceremonial first move.