Goa’s young chess sensation, Ethan Vaz, brought glory to India by winning five medals at the 2025 Western Asia Youth Chess Championships held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, from April 20 to 29. With this remarkable achievement, Ethan’s total international medal count has now reached 21.
The tournament featured three formats—Rapid, Standard (Classical), and Blitz—and was organized by the Tajikistan Chess Federation in collaboration with the Asian Chess Federation and FIDE.
Competing in the Under-16 Open category, Ethan secured individual Silver medals in Standard and Rapid, and a Bronze in Blitz. He also helped Team India win Bronze in both Standard and Rapid formats, despite the team comprising just two players—competing against full three-player teams from countries like Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
Though only 13, Ethan chose to compete in the Under-16 category, instead of the Under-14, to push his limits. His selection followed a medal-winning performance at the 2024 Under-15 National Chess Championship. He had also clinched Gold in the 2024 Commonwealth Chess Championship in the same higher age group.
Reflecting on his performance, Ethan said, “I was aiming for gold, but I’m proud of the consistent podium finishes.” His mother thanked all coaches, sponsors, and institutions for their support.
