Eswatini's individual player FIDE rankings have been updated, reflecting performances from the 46th International Chess Federation (FIDE) Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan. The rankings show Candidate Master Mbongeni Mabuza as the country's new top player. He recently participated in the Chess Olympiad as part of Team Eswatini. Mabuza now leads the standings with a rating of 1,833 Elo points.
Mabuza has overtaken his teammate, CM Sikhanyiso 'Skha' Sihlongonyane, who previously held the top spot with a rating of 1,832 Elo points. The margin between the two is minimal, with Mabuza leading by just one Elo point. Sihlongonyane was not part of the recent Team Eswatini squad. In third place is CM Smilo Hlophe, followed by CM Santiago De Nobrega, who earned his CM title and achieved a rating of 1,817 during the Chess Olympiad.
The updated rankings reflect the impact of the Chess Olympiad on Eswatini's chess players. CM Santiago De Nobrega, the reigning Under-18 champion, now occupies fourth position. He had a notable performance in the Chess Olympiad, earning his CM title. Completing the top five is CM Simphiwe Dlamini. Mabuza expressed his gratitude for the Elo gains from the Chess Olympiad, which helped him become the top-ranked player.
Mabuza aims to maintain his position and is preparing for future challenges. He recognizes the pressure that comes with being the top-ranked player but is confident in his ability to handle it. Mabuza plans to build on his experience and solid preparation to stay ahead. His goal is to reach a 2,000 rating in the future.
In the women's section, Women Candidate Master Sinqobile Dlamini leads the rankings, placing 23rd overall among 53 local players. Her Elo rating stands at 1,596. Dlamini was also part of Team Eswatini during the Chess Olympiad. Following her is Nosimilo Mkhonto with an Elo rating of 1,545, and Nolwazi Nkwanyana, who returned with a WCM title from the Olympiad.
The top five female players are completed by Nomcebo Sibisi and Tivumile Ngozo. Other notable players include Kiara Halar, who participated in the Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities and secured a respectable place in the rankings. The updated rankings showcase the current state of chess in Eswatini, reflecting the performances of its players on national and international stages.
The Eswatini Chess Federation continues to monitor the progress of its players. With 53 local players ranked, the federation is optimistic about the growth and development of chess in the country. The recent Chess Olympiad provided valuable experience for Eswatini's players, contributing to their improved rankings.
Key points
- - CM Mbongeni Mabuza is Eswatini's new top-ranked chess player with a rating of 1,833 Elo points. - WCM Sinqobile Dlamini leads the women's section with an Elo rating of 1,596. - The updated rankings reflect performances from the 46th International Chess Federation (FIDE) Chess Olympiad.
