Hou Yifan, born on February 27, 1994, in Xinghua, Jiangsu, China, is a Chinese chess grandmaster renowned for her exceptional achievements in the chess world. She is a four-time Women’s World Chess Champion and is widely regarded as one of the strongest female chess players in history.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Hou Yifan
- Date of Birth: February 27, 1994
- Place of Birth: Xinghua, Jiangsu, China
- Nationality: Chinese
- Title: Grandmaster (awarded in 2008)
Early Life and Chess Career
Hou Yifan began playing chess at the age of six and quickly demonstrated prodigious talent. She became the youngest female player ever to qualify for the title of Grandmaster at the age of 14 years and 6 months in 2008. In 2010, at the age of 16, she became the youngest ever Women’s World Chess Champion.
Career Highlights
- Women’s World Chess Champion: Hou Yifan has won the Women’s World Chess Championship four times (2010, 2011, 2013, 2016), showcasing her dominance in women’s chess.
- Top Female Player: She has been the world’s top-rated female player since 2015 and is the second highest-rated female player of all time, behind only Judit Polgár.
- Academic Pursuits: In addition to her chess career, Hou Yifan is a professor at Shenzhen University, reflecting her commitment to education and intellectual development.
Playing Style
Hou Yifan is known for her versatile and strategic playing style, with a deep understanding of various chess positions. Her ability to adapt to different opponents and situations has been a key factor in her success.
Career Statistics
- Peak FIDE Rating: 2686 (achieved in March 2015)
- Current FIDE Rating: 2633 (as of December 2024)
- Notable Achievements: Four-time Women’s World Chess Champion; youngest female Grandmaster; consistent presence as the world’s top-rated female player.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
- Net Worth: While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, Hou Yifan’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of $1 to $2 million, accumulated through tournament prizes, endorsements, and her academic career.
- Lifestyle: Hou Yifan balances her time between her chess career and her role as a professor. She is known for her dedication to promoting chess and education, often participating in events and initiatives aimed at encouraging young talent.
Legacy
Hou Yifan’s contributions to chess have been instrumental in elevating the status of women’s chess globally. Her achievements have inspired a new generation of female players, and she continues to be a prominent figure in the chess community, both as a competitor and an educator.
