Four representatives from Tajikistan have emerged as winners in their respective age categories in the international online chess series The Road to Dushanbe, held on the WorldChess platform.
Following eight rounds of competition, the winners included Shohjahon Saidov (age 19), named best male player; Yasmina Yusupova (age 12), who ranked among the top five in her category; Shukrona Maskhabova (age 19), recognized as the best female player; and Khurshed Boboyev (age 61), honored as the top veteran.
The series brought together over 300 players from 20 countries, including a record-breaking 170 participants from Tajikistan, marking the highest national turnout in the tournament. According to the Tajikistan Chess Federation, this milestone reflects the rapid growth of the chess movement in the country and the rising popularity of intellectual sports among youth.
The Federation also praised The Road to Dushanbe as a successful example of digital transformation in sports. Through the WorldChess online platform, Tajik players gained international experience and improved their rankings — all without having to travel abroad.
As a reward, the winners received official invitations to participate in the upcoming President of the Republic of Tajikistan Cup, along with free accommodation and waived participation fees.
The President’s Cup, scheduled for November 9–17 in Dushanbe, will feature a $50,000 prize pool and follow a nine-round Swiss system format. The tournament is expected to draw renowned chess players from around the globe.
