Checkmate at 11: Bodhana Sivanandan Becomes England’s Highest-Rated Chess Player

• At 11, Bodhana Sivanandan is England’s highest-rated female chess player (FIDE 2366), surpassing Lan Yao.

• Entered world’s top 100 women for the first time, ranked 72nd.

• Began playing during COVID-19 lockdown after discovering an old chess set.

• Woman International Master; defeated ex-world champion Mariya Muzychuk.

• Praised by Rishi Sunak and English Chess Federation for inspiring young players nationwide.

Bodhana Sivanandan’s rapid ascent in the chess world has reached another milestone, as the 11-year-old has officially become England’s highest-rated female player in the latest rankings released by the International Chess Federation (FIDE). With a rating of 2366, the North London schoolgirl has surpassed four-time British women’s champion Lan Yao, marking a significant achievement in her young career.

Her progress is all the more striking considering she only began playing chess during the COVID-19 lockdown. What started as a pastime at home has evolved into a journey that has captured the attention of the chess community both in England and abroad. According to family accounts, Bodhana first developed an interest in the game after coming across an old chess set her father had been planning to discard — a small moment that would ultimately set the stage for her remarkable rise.

Bodhana’s accomplishments now extend well beyond the national scene. For the first time, she has broken into the top 100 women players in the world, currently sitting at 72nd place. Her entry into this elite group underscores not only her talent but also the pace at which she has progressed in a highly competitive field.

Already holding the title of Woman International Master, Bodhana has demonstrated that she can compete — and succeed — against some of the strongest players in the game. One of her most notable performances came at a major European tournament in Greece, where she secured a victory over former women’s world champion Mariya Muzychuk, a result that drew widespread attention.

Her achievements have sparked praise from across the UK. Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak offered his congratulations, recalling a past encounter with the young player in the Downing Street garden and noting that her success comes as little surprise to those who have seen her skills firsthand.

The English Chess Federation has also highlighted her broader influence. Chief Executive Richard Walsh described her as a pioneering figure who is inspiring not only girls and women in chess, but players across the country. He suggested that her accomplishments place her among the most exceptional young sporting talents England has produced.

Supported by her family and driven by evident dedication, Bodhana is already competing at an elite level while still in primary school. As her rating climbs and her experience deepens, her trajectory suggests that this latest achievement may be just one chapter in a much larger story.