New Delhi: R Vaishali not only created history by winning the Women’s Candidates Championship 2026 with 8.5/14 runs, but was also handsomely rewarded financially for her outstanding performance. Complete first, Vaishali With a guaranteed winner’s bonus of €28,000, it is one of the biggest prizes of her career to date.However, the benefits don’t stop there. The tournament follows a structure where players receive additional rewards based on their performance in each round.
For every half point scored, participants will receive €2,200. Given Vaishali’s consistent performance across 14 rounds, including crucial wins and hard-fought draws, her total prize money increased significantly from the base amount.This combined figure includes winner’s prize money and accumulated performance bonuses, underscoring the value of consistency in such a long and demanding tournament.Beyond the immediate financial gain, the greater reward lies in what comes next. Vasari’s victory earned her a spot in the Women’s World Chess Championship against defending champion Ju Wenjun. This upcoming competition not only offers the chance to compete for a world title, but also brings greater prize money and global recognition.Also read: ‘Javokil Zindarov was a bit lucky’: Germany’s No. 1 Vincent Kaymer’s ‘crucial moment’ in 2026 Candidates victory | ExclusiveFor Vaishali, the candidate’s victory represents both a career milestone and a stepping stone. While the prize money reflects her success in Cyprus, future opportunities may further elevate her standing on the world stage, making this win even more valuable in the long run.
