Who is Bodhana Sivanandan, 10-year-old chess record breaker?
The world of chess has witnessed many talented players throughout its history, but few have made as impressive a debut as Bodhana Sivanandan, a 10-year-old prodigy who has shattered records and left the chess community in awe. At just 10 years and 5 months old, Bodhana became the youngest female to defeat a Grandmaster in classical chess, beating GM Peter Wells at the 2025 British Championship. This incredible achievement not only secured her Woman International Master title but also broke Carissa Yip’s record, inspiring a new generation of female chess players.
Born and raised in the UK, Bodhana’s passion for chess began at a young age. Her parents, both avid chess enthusiasts, encouraged her to learn the game, and she quickly showed a natural talent for it. Under the guidance of her coach, she spent countless hours honing her skills, studying the strategies and techniques of the game. Her hard work paid off, as she began to participate in local tournaments and eventually caught the attention of the chess community.
The 2025 British Championship was Bodhana’s first major tournament, and her victory over GM Peter Wells was nothing short of spectacular. The 10-year-old phenom played with a level of maturity and skill that belied her age, outmaneuvering her opponent with ease. The win was not only a testament to her natural talent but also a result of her intense preparation and dedication to the game.
Bodhana’s achievement has sent shockwaves throughout the chess world, with many hailing her as a trailblazer for women’s chess. Her victory has shown that age is just a number, and that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. The chess community has been quick to acknowledge her talent, with many top players and coaches offering words of praise and encouragement.
In an interview with Breezy Scroll, Bodhana’s coach, Mark Hebden, praised his young protégée, saying, “Bodhana is an exceptional talent. She has a natural ability to understand the game, and her dedication to her training is unparalleled. We knew she was special, but even we were surprised by her performance at the British Championship.”
The impact of Bodhana’s achievement goes beyond just her own personal success. Her victory has inspired a new generation of female chess players, showing them that they too can achieve greatness with hard work and dedication. The chess community has long been male-dominated, but Bodhana’s success has helped to shift the balance, paving the way for more women to participate and succeed in the game.
As Bodhana continues to grow and develop as a player, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for her. With her incredible talent and dedication, there is no doubt that she will continue to break records and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of chess. Her achievement is a testament to the power of hard work and determination, and it serves as a reminder that anything is possible with the right mindset and attitude.
