Bibisara Assaubayeva of Kazakhstan believes that while a lack of self-confidence among female chess players is a contributing factor, the primary reason for the qualitative gap between male and female players lies elsewhere. The three-time Women's World Blitz champion and world No. 4 shared her insights with TOI, noting that far more boys engage in the 64-square game than girls. 'That, combined with coaches often prioritizing boys, makes it harder for girls to reach the top,' she explained.
Support from Male Counterparts
The 22-year-old grandmaster has no complaints about the support she has received from men. Her close friend Javokhir Sindarov, who is set to challenge D Gukesh for the world championship title, is there to assist her. Additionally, she has benefited from the guidance of Sindarov's coach and International Master Roman Vidonyak.
Experience in High-Level Competition
Assaubayeva gained valuable exposure to elite chess by competing against strong male players during the Las Vegas leg of the Freestyle tour last year. She lost six of her seven games, managing only a draw against Sindarov. Despite the tough results, the experience was instrumental in her development.
