'I Have No Regrets': Koneru Humpy Opens Up On 2026 Women's Candidates Withdrawal

Koneru Humpy has made one thing crystal clear: she has no regrets about pulling out of the 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament.

The Indian GM stunned the chess world earlier this year when she withdrew from the prestigious event in Cyprus, citing safety concerns amid escalating tensions surrounding the Iran conflict and instability in the Middle East.

At the time, the decision sparked widespread debate — and in Humpy’s absence, history unfolded.

Fellow Indian GM R Vaishali grabbed the opportunity with both hands, becoming the first Indian woman ever to win the Women’s Candidates and earning herself a shot at the world title.

But despite missing out on a potentially career-defining opportunity, Humpy says she remains fully at peace with her call.

“Today, people might talk about how everything went smoothly and nothing happened. But the scenario was different when I took the decision, and I can only take the decisions which are in my control,” Humpy explained in an interview with The Indian Express.

“Once something happens, none of the calculations work or nobody will be around! Everybody will be looking after themselves. I think it’s a player’s right and also a responsibility.”

The tournament in Cyprus eventually concluded without any incidents or security scares involving the 16 participating players. Yet Humpy insists hindsight changes nothing for her.

The former world champion admitted that becoming a mother has also changed the way she approaches decisions surrounding her career and safety.

“I think I have done what any mother would do. So I don’t see any point in thinking that if I had played, maybe things would have been different,” Humpy stated.

“Of course, the Candidates is an important tournament, but I don’t think I will be interested in playing under such scenarios in future as well.”

Humpy is expected to return to elite competition at the upcoming Norway Chess later this month, which will kick off a hectic run featuring the Global Chess League, the Chess Olympiad, and the World Rapid and Blitz Teams Championship in Hong Kong.