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The FIDE Women’s World Chess Championship 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events in women’s chess history. This championship will see a fierce battle between the four-time reigning champion Ju Wenjun and her formidable challenger Tan Zhongyi, both representing China.
Tan Zhongyi is no stranger to the Women’s World Chess Championship stage. She won the title in 2017 by defeating Anna Muzychuk in a knockout tournament. Notably, Tan had also overcome Ju Wenjun in that same event, a victory that led her to the championship crown.
However, Ju Wenjun came back strong in 2018, challenging Tan and winning the title with a 5½–4½ scoreline. Since then, Ju has successfully defended her title in 2018, 2020, and 2023, making her a dominant force in women’s chess.
Now, after winning the 2024 Women’s Candidates Tournament, Tan Zhongyi has earned the right to challenge Ju Wenjun once again, setting the stage for an electrifying rematch after seven years.
When and Where Will the 2025 Women’s World Chess Championship Take Place?
The championship match is scheduled to be held from April 3 to April 23, 2025. The event will be split into two venues, following the recent tradition of hosting games in the hometowns of both players:
- Shanghai (April 3 - April 10) – The first half of the match.
- Chongqing (April 11 - April 23) – The second half, including any potential tiebreaks.
This format ensures both players get the opportunity to compete in a familiar setting while maintaining the prestige of a world championship event.
Format of the Women’s World Chess Championship 2025
FIDE has reverted to a match-only format to determine the Women’s World Champion. The 2025 championship match will consist of 12 classical games.
Time Control:
- 90 minutes for the first 40 moves.
- 30 minutes for the rest of the game.
- 30-second increment per move starting from move one.
If the match ends in a tie after 12 games, tiebreak games with faster time controls will decide the champion.
Meet the Contenders: A Look at Ju Wenjun and Tan Zhongyi
Ju Wenjun (China) – The Reigning Champion
- Age: 34
- FIDE Rating (March 2025): 2561
- Titles:
- Four-time Women’s World Chess Champion (2018, 2018, 2020, 2023)
- Reigning Women’s World Blitz Chess Champion
- Two-time Women’s World Rapid Chess Champion
- Strengths: Ju Wenjun has proven to be a resilient and strategic player, excelling in both classical and rapid formats.
Tan Zhongyi (China) – The Challenger
- Age: 33
- FIDE Rating (March 2025): 2555
- Titles:
- Women’s World Chess Champion (2017-2018)
- Three-time reigning Chinese Women’s National Champion
- Five-time Chinese National Champion
- Women’s World Rapid Chess Champion (2022)
- Strengths: Tan Zhongyi is known for her strong tactical play and deep opening preparation.
Prize Money for the 2025 Women’s World Chess Championship
The total prize fund for the 2025 Women’s World Chess Championship is set at €500,000, distributed as follows:
- If decided in classical games:
- Winner: €300,000 (60%)
- Runner-up: €200,000 (40%)
- If decided in tiebreaks:
- Winner: €275,000 (55%)
- Runner-up: €225,000 (45%)
This represents one of the most lucrative prize pools in the history of women’s chess.
Where and How to Watch the Women’s World Chess Championship 2025
Fans can follow the championship live through various streaming platforms, offering expert commentary and in-depth analysis:
- Chess.com
- Chess24
- FIDE’s Official YouTube Channel
- ChessBase India’s YouTube Channel
These platforms will provide live broadcasts, post-game analysis, and insights from leading chess experts.
Complete Schedule of the Women’s World Chess Championship 2025
The tournament will take place from April 3 to April 21, 2025. Below is the detailed schedule:
- April 3, 2025: Game 1 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 4, 2025: Game 2 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 6, 2025: Game 3 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 7, 2025: Game 4 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 9, 2025: Game 5 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 10, 2025: Game 6 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 13, 2025: Game 7 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 14, 2025: Game 8 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 16, 2025: Game 9 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 17, 2025: Game 10 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 19, 2025: Game 11 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 20, 2025: Game 12 – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
- April 21, 2025: Tiebreaks (if needed) – 12:30 PM (GMT+5:30)
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