Ashgabat, February 14 | ORIENT. The Higher League of the Turkmenistan Chess Championship concluded in Ashgabat. While the final round marked the end of the season for most of the participants, for the winners, it was only the beginning of a long international marathon. The tournament formed the core of the national team, which in just a few days will defend its country's honor at the prestigious "Russian Chess Crown" festival in the Moscow region.

A Springboard in the Moscow Region

The international tournament in the Moscow region (February 17–27) will be the first serious test for our masters in 2026. This is not just a trip – it is a strategic stage in preparation for the main event of the four-year period: the 46th World Chess Olympiad, which will gather the world's chess elite in Samarkand this September. The Moscow games will allow the team's leaders to get into the swing of things and hone their teamwork.

Women's Intelligence: Leaders and Sensations

In the women's category, Lala Shokhradova confirmed her status as the "queen." A student at the Yagshigeldy Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas, she completed the two-round tournament practically in one breath, scoring 11.5 points. However, the main intrigue unfolded around her sister, Leyla Shokhradova. With the highest rating (2183), Leyla decided on a bold experiment by competing in the open category alongside men. She joined the national team as the rating favorite, proving that talent knows no gender boundaries.

The real revelation of the tournament was 12-year-old Dilber Khupbyeva from Dashoguz. The young chess player finished just one step short of the national team, but her mature and uncompromising performance against titled opponents was a clear signal: a generation is growing up in Turkmenistan ready to storm any podium.

Men's Logic: Experience vs. Pressure

In the open category, Amanmukhammet Khommadov deservedly lifted the championship trophy. His victory is the result of the meticulous work of the country's honored coach, Serdar Annaberdiev. Amanmukhammet also joined the team, along with the consistent Vepaly Khalynyazov and the experienced Shakhrukh Turaev.

The participation of recognized leaders Saparmurat Atabayev and Meylis Annaberdiev, who were included in the team by right of their top ranking, will add particular strength to the national team.

School of Champions

It's noteworthy that both gold medalists in the Higher League are graduates of the Moscow Chess and Checkers School. This further confirms that their success on the board is not only due to the players' talent, but also to the systematic work of their mentors. Now this blend of experience and youth will be tested by the "Russian Crown," which will be an important prelude to the Olympic Games in Samarkand.