Chess is more than just a game to me; it’s my world, it’s the core of my life: Alexandra Kosteniuk Premium

Alexandra Kosteniuk discusses her chess journey, the game's evolution, and her motivations as a top player in her 40s.

When Alexandra Kosteniuk became a Grandmaster in 2004, at the age of 19, she joined an exclusive ladies’ club. Only nine women before her had become Grandmasters. She has since won the World Championship, the World Cup and the World Rapid Championship. She was a part of Russia’s Olympiad-winning team on three successive occasions. At 41, she continues to be a force on the chessboard. Excerpts from an interview Kosteniuk gave The Hindu in Mumbai:

How do you look back at playing the World Championship final at 17, against Zhu Chen in 2001?

I didn’t think much of it at the time. You just live the moment. But now when you think about it, it seems unbelievable.

Then seven years later, you won your first World title, defeating Hou Yifan in the final. You had started as the ninth seed. Hou was seeded third.

She was 14 at that time, but of course not a regular 14-year-old. And now Gukesh is the World champion, he won the title at 18. I think that is normal nowadays as kids. I was, of course, very happy when I won my first World title. When I play a tournament, regardless of its level, I just focus on my moves.

How much do you think chess has changed from the time you started?