Will Equal Prize Money in Norway Chess Inspire More Women to Join the Sport? Defending Champion Ju Wenjun Speaks
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Synopsis
As the countdown begins for Norway Chess Women 2025, Ju Wenjun expresses her expectations for the tournament, highlighting the significance of equal prize money in attracting more women to chess.
Key Takeaways
- Norway Chess Women 2025 promotes equal prize money for female players.
- Defending champion Ju Wenjun emphasizes the importance of focus and hard work.
- The tournament features a strong lineup of competitors.
- Equal prize funds inspire increased female participation in chess.
- Ju Wenjun's journey reflects the challenges and successes in women's chess.
Stavanger (Norway), May 12 (NationPress) As we approach the much-anticipated Norway Chess Women 2025, the defending champion, Ju Wenjun, has expressed her enthusiasm and hopes for the upcoming tournament, scheduled from May 26 to June 6 at Finansparken (SR-Bank) in Stavanger, Norway.
"I am genuinely excited to participate in Norway Chess Women 2025. This is my second time competing, and we have some exceptionally talented chess players participating this year. With the audience becoming more familiar with the Armageddon format and time controls, I believe this tournament will be even more thrilling," shared the Chinese Grandmaster as she prepares for the event.
Ju Wenjun, the reigning queen of chess, recently secured her remarkable fifth consecutive World Championship title earlier this year. Beginning her chess journey at age seven, she turned professional in 2004, earned her Grandmaster title in 2014, and clinched her first World Championship in 2018. Since then, she has remained undefeated in women’s classical chess. Moreover, she holds the title of Women’s World Blitz Champion and is a two-time Women’s World Rapid Champion.
Reflecting on her career, the 34-year-old stated, "Every match is a memorable and unique experience for me. It's crucial to take it one game at a time, maintain focus, and invest in hard work and teamwork. However, when I’m playing chess, I find it best to concentrate solely on the game and enjoy it to the fullest."
Last year, she made history by winning the inaugural Norway Chess Women title. This tournament has set a significant precedent by being the first to offer female players equal prize funds, establishing a new standard for the future of chess.
Applauding the tournament organizers, the World Champion remarked, "I believe this is a tremendous achievement and a significant motivation, not just for women in chess but for women in sports overall. It actively encourages more women to engage in chess and provides an excellent platform for us."
Outside of chess, Wenjun enjoys playing and watching table tennis. She draws inspiration from her fellow countryman, table tennis World and Olympic Champion Fan Zhendong. As she plans her sightseeing itinerary for Norway, she also discussed the competitive landscape she expects to encounter.
"There will be some pressure to defend my title, but overall, I’m looking forward to enjoying my time in Stavanger. The competition is very fierce this year, especially with the addition of new player Sara Khadem, who excels in rapid and blitz formats and shows great potential to win this tournament," she concluded.
Last year's runner-up Anna Muzychuk, Indian chess legend Koneru Humpy, along with Lei Tingjie, Vaishali R, and Sara Khadem, will challenge Wenjun at Norway Chess Women 2025, starting from May 26.
Point of View
I find the equal prize money initiative in Norway Chess Women to be a transformative step for gender equality in sports. Ju Wenjun's achievements and her perspective on the tournament reflect the dedication and skill present in women's chess. This event not only showcases elite talent but also serves as a catalyst for encouraging more women to engage in the sport, which is essential for its growth.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Norway Chess Women 2025?
Norway Chess Women 2025 is the second edition of a prestigious chess tournament specifically for women, featuring equal prize money, which aims to promote gender equality in chess.
When and where will the tournament take place?
The tournament is scheduled from May 26 to June 6, 2025, at Finansparken (SR-Bank) in Stavanger, Norway.
Who are some key competitors in this tournament?
Key competitors include defending champion Ju Wenjun, last year's runner-up Anna Muzychuk, Indian chess legend Koneru Humpy, and rising star Sara Khadem.
How has equal prize money impacted women's chess?
Equal prize money in Norway Chess Women has set a new benchmark, inspiring more women to enter the sport and increasing visibility for female chess players.
What are Ju Wenjun's achievements?
Ju Wenjun is a five-time World Champion, the reigning Women's World Blitz Champion, and a two-time Women's World Rapid Champion.
