Romi Milner News Today

Editor's note: This story first appeared in the February 2024 issue of Chess Life Magazine. Consider becoming a US Chess member for more content like this — access to digital editions of both Chess Life and Chess Life Kids is a member benefit, and you can receive print editions of both magazines for a small add-on fee.

Top-seeded Americans GM Hans Niemann and IM Carissa Yip were both playing with a chance for first in the final round of the 2023 FIDE World Junior Championships in Mexico City, but their paths could not have been more different.  After storming to a 6½/7 start in the Girls section, Yip found herself playing catchup after losing her ninth round game against 13-year-old Chinese WIM Miaoyi Lu.  

The 2023 FIDE World Junior Chess Championship (Open U20 & Girls U20) begins today in Mexico City, Mexico. The tournament is organized by the Mexican Chess Federation in collaboration with CONADE (National Sports Commission), COM (Mexican Olympic Committee) and Culture Ministry.   

The Master Section of the 13th Annual Southwest Class Championships, February 17–21, ended in a tie for first between International Masters Christopher Yoo and Zurab Javakhadze, with 7.5 out of 9. Woman International Master Alice Lee made an International Master norm. Alexey Root reports from Fort Worth, Texas. | Photo: Courtesy of the Lee family