Rouda Essa Alserkal, 15, has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first Emirati and Gulf player to be awarded the Woman Grandmaster (WGM) title by the International Chess Federation. Her journey, however, began with a setback.
As a four-year-old, Rouda’s early passion for chess was evident, but she was initially turned away from a chess club due to her age. Her talent was recognized by coach Hisham Al Argha, who, impressed by her ability to move the knight at such a young age, welcomed her into the club.
Rouda’s dedication and love for the game solidified during her first tournament. “I loved the challenge and the endless learning,” she said. Over the years, she honed her skills, focusing on strategy and pattern recognition, while balancing her studies.
Despite challenges, including periods of perceived stagnation, Rouda persevered. “Learning from my mistakes was key,” she explained.
The WGM title brought immense joy and a sense of accomplishment. “It was a relief and a reflection of all the hard work,” she said. “I hope it inspires other girls in the UAE to pursue their chess dreams.”
Looking ahead, Rouda aims to achieve the Grandmaster (GM) title and compete in top-tier tournaments. Her advice to young players is simple: “Be patient, train hard, and focus on enjoying the game. Learning from mistakes is crucial, and the more fun you have, the more motivated you’ll be.”
