Anna Olehivna Muzychuk – Chess Grandmaster refused to play in Saudi Arabia.
Anna Muzychuk Ukrainian chess player who holds the title of Grandmaster (GM), is the fourth woman in chess history to attain a FIDE rating of at least 2600. She has been ranked as high as No. 197 in the world, and No. 2 among women.
In 2017 World Chess Championship she turned down to go to Saudi Arabia. She said “In a few days, I’ll lose two world titles, one after another. Because I have decided not to go to Saudi Arabia. I refuse to play by special rules, wear an abaya, or be accompanied by a man so I can get out of the hotel, so I don’t feel like a second-class person. “I will follow my principles and not compete in the fast chess and blitz world championship where in just 5 days I could have made more money than with dozens of other combined tournaments. This is all very unpleasant but the sad part is that no one seems to care. Bitter feelings, but I can’t go back.”
Muzychuk’s choice drew praise from many, who saw it as a stand against gender inequality. She was also praised for her courage in speaking out against a powerful country. However, others criticized her decision, arguing that she was depriving herself of an opportunity to compete at the highest level.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has taken some steps to improve women’s rights. In 2018, the country lifted its ban on women driving. However, the country still has a long way to go in achieving gender equality.
Muzychuk’s decision to boycott the World Chess Championship was a powerful statement against gender inequality. It was a reminder that women around the world are still fighting for their basic rights.