15.03.2016

The head of FIDE congratulates Hou Yifan with victory

Dear Hou Yifan! I warmly congratulate you on your well-deserved victory in the match for the title of the World Chess Champion among women.

Your victory in the match against Maria Muzychuk shows the great skill and dedication to the ancient art. Without a single defeat you convincingly proved that this title is won owing to the perfection of your chess creativity, correctly chosen strategy, strength of character and indomitable will.

I am confident that the honest and tough fight of the equal and worthy rivals has met the expectations of the fans around the world. I wish you to continue to show the same brilliant style of play and make an invaluable contribution to the development of the most intellectual sport.

The President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE)
Kirsan Ilyumzhinov