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.
China emerged victorious in the FIDE World Youth U16 Olympiad held in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. The team dominated the competition, securing an impressive 17 out of 18 match points. Turkey, the last year's champions, finished second, while Greece claimed the bronze medal. FIDE report, >1000 games, plus beautiful pictorial impressions by Frans Peeters and Lennart Ootes.