Ulviyya Fataliyeva Makes History: First Azerbaijani Woman Crowned European Women’s Chess Champion

Ulviyya Fataliyeva, a female Azerbaijani chess grandmaster, was crowned this week at the European Women’s Chess Championship (EWCC) in Rhodes, Greece. The 28-year-old made history as the first Azerbaijani woman to win the title on Tuesday.

Fataliyeva surged to the forefront in Round 5 of the EWCC after defeating Ukraine's Bozhena Piddubna. She maintained her lead through the tenth and final round, finishing a full point ahead of her nearest competitors. In her final match, she drew with Nino Batsiashvili of Georgia, securing the championship with an impressive score of 8.5/10.

“The competition was highly intense. Prior to that, the preparation process was also very intense. I am very happy that we have achieved such a historic success. It is truly a matter of great pride,” Fataliyeva told journalists.

“I dedicate my victory to the new generation of chess players. I want it to be an inspiring event for them. They should believe in their dreams and pursue them,” she added.

Since starting her career in 2010, Ulviyya has clinched titles in the U-14 and U-18 European championships and the U-20 Azerbaijan cup. She has also competed in the world and European championships as part of the Azerbaijan national chess team in 2015, 2017, and 2022. At the EWCC 2022, Fataliyeva, being a representative of the Gandja chess school in Azerbaijan, earned a bronze medal.

Following her triumphant victory, Bakcell CEO Klaus Mueller congratulated Ulviyya Fataliyeva on her outstanding achievement. During their meeting at the Bakcell head office, Grandmaster Ulviyya Fataliyeva was presented with a golden Bakcell number, a one-year balance, and the latest smartphone model. Mueller expressed his pride in her victory, stating that it had made all of Azerbaijan proud, and wished her continuous success in her career.

Mueller further highlighted the significance of moments like Fataliyeva’s victory, emphasizing that they embody the essence of Bakcell's new brand identity – connecting people, places, and priceless moments, while paving the way to a future where achievements like Fataliyeva’s shine as guiding stars.