Eleven-Year-Old Bodhana Sivanandan Chases Another World Age Record

Rising Star Approaches Historic Milestone

Bodhana Sivanandan, an 11-year-old chess prodigy from Harrow in England, is on the cusp of achieving one of the most remarkable feats in chess history. With a rating of 2399.4, she needs only a handful of additional rating points to reach the 2400 threshold required for the open international master title.

Her recent performances at the European Club Cup have been nothing short of impressive. In round one, she went very close to a draw against former world title challenger GM Aleksandra Goryachkina, showcasing her ability to compete at the highest level despite her age.

In round three, Sivanandan outplayed an IM-level opponent to push her rating to 2399.4, narrowly missing the 2400 mark. Her next fixture saw her draw from a winning position against GM Nino Batsiashvili, rated 2426, further demonstrating her resilience and tactical sophistication.

Already Among the Elite

Despite not yet crossing the 2400 barrier, Sivanandan has already secured a place among an exclusive group. She has joined the 10 youngest 2400-rated players in chess history, a list that includes some of the game’s most celebrated talents.

Notable members of this group include Roman Shogdzhiev, the rising Russian star currently ranked world No 5, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Argentina’s Faustino Oro, and Turkey’s Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus.

A Record-Breaking Prospect

Beyond the potential title, Sivanandan is poised to challenge another record. A successful qualification for the IM title would see her become the youngest female international master in chess history, surpassing a benchmark previously held by Judit Polgar.

As her rating inch closer to 2400, all eyes remain on the young English player and whether she can convert her outstanding performances into a historic achievement on the board.

Source

This report is based on information published by The Guardian — Chess.

Official source: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/oct/23/chess-bodhana-sivanandan-11-can-break-another-world-age-record-on-friday