I don’t prefer second place, I aim for first: Bibisara Assaubayeva

“I chose chess over gymnastics because I had won more championships in the former than in the latter,” reflects the multitalented Bibisara Assaubayeva.

In 2022, when still a teenager, Bibisara entered the Guinness Books of World Records as the youngest women's World Blitz Chess Champion. And now, at 20 years of age, her passion and meticulous attention help her stand out as one of the top players to watch out for in world chess.

In the upcoming season of the Global Chess League (GCL), Bibisara was handpicked by American Gambits, a new team debuting in the league.

“I am very happy to be part of this team, which is very strong,” she says in an interaction with The Bridge, showcasing her confidence in their potential to win as a team.

With Hikaru Nakamura, one of the world’s best, anchoring the squad, Sara (as she is known in the chess fraternity) is optimistic about their chances.

“I hope we can perform well in the tournament and maybe take first place.” she adds.

From gymnastics to chess

Bibisara’s journey into the world of chess began in Kazakhstan, where she was torn between two passions: chess and rhythmic gymnastics.

However, by the time she was eleven, she had to choose between the two.

“I chose chess over rhythmic gymnastics because I had already won a few World Youth Chess Championships, whereas, in gymnastics, I had only a few local tournaments,” she remarks with a smile, reflecting on the pivotal moments in her journey.

Looking back, Bibisara recalls that it was her grandfather who taught the first moves in the game.

“I asked my grandfather to teach me, but he initially refused because I was too small,” she recalls.

Determined, she often waited by the chessboard until he returned home.

In her early chess days, Bibisara was particular about not losing her queen and would get upset whenever it happened.

“I don’t know why, but it was my favorite piece,” she admits.

However, she has since mastered the skill of capturing the opponents’ queen.

Making history

Bibisara holds the unique distinction of being the youngest Women’s World Blitz Chess Champion, having won it in 2021 and the year after.

She reflects on her achievement with delight.

“It was a great feeling, and my family was delighted when they realized I was the youngest champion.”

She prefers Blitz over classical chess because she finds the latter slower and sometimes boring.

“Blitz is a more emotional game. In classical chess, players often know moves in advance, but in Blitz, you must think quickly,” she explains.

At just 20 years old, Bibisara has already been recognized as the Outstanding Female Chess Player of 2021 in Asia by FIDE.

“Since winning my first World Youth Championship, I have always had some attention, but it has not changed me,” she reflects, happy to have been recognized as Asia's best player.

A Carlsen fan

Bibisara closely followed the recent Chess Olympiad, where she wasn't surprised by India's victory in the open section, though she wished for Kazakhstan to win in the women’s section.

“I would have been surprised if India did not win in the open section, since three of their players in the squad played in the FIDE candidates and were quite strong on paper,” she admits.

As she looks ahead to the Global Chess League, Bibisara is eager to face the Alpine SG Pipers, which includes her favorite player, Magnus Carlsen.

“He achieved so much at a young age, becoming world number one at 19, and has since won 17 world championship titles,” she says with admiration.

Bibisara prefers to reflect on her losses after tournaments instead of reviewing them during the event.

Preparing for success

When playing a tournament, the youngster prefers not to dissect her game too much.

“Thinking about my mistakes after the tournament will be more productive,” she remarks.

In team tournaments, she finds it challenging to remain calm until the end, saying, “In team events, I can’t relax until the last game is finished.”

Therefore, to prepare for tournaments, Bibisara combines various methods, including solving puzzles, analyzing games, and using engines.

“When I was younger, I mostly worked with engines. Now, it's essential to work with computers a lot,” she explains.

Despite chess not involving physical exhaustion, the mental strain can be significant. To unwind, Bibisara employs different relaxation techniques.

“What works best for me is floating in salted water with my eyes closed. I also enjoy spending time with friends, watching movies, and going to the gym,” she shares.

She is optimistic about the franchise format of the Global Chess League and its potential to popularize chess.

“I think it’s great for the sport. Chess isn't as famous as football, so this format can help,” she says.

Bibisara is thrilled by the growing popularity of chess among young children in India and worldwide.

“It’s amazing how much kids in India know about chess. Their success has inspired many,” she notes.

It is heartwarming for her when young fans recognize her, and people see her as an inspirational figure.

“Sometimes people write to me on Instagram, saying they’ve named their children after me, which makes me really proud.”

Despite her many achievements, Bibisara remains ambitious.

“I think I have done well in rapid and blitz chess, but I need to achieve more in classical chess. I don’t prefer second place, and I aim for first,” she concludes.