zoom_in Click to enlarge

Ju Wenjun

▲ ▼

description Ju Wenjun Overview

Ju Wenjun is a Chinese chess grandmaster who has served as the Women's World Chess Champion since 2018. Known for her deep positional understanding and solid endgame technique, she successfully defended her title in subsequent championship cycles, including matches against Aleksandra Goryachkina and Lei Tingjie. Her dominance has established her as one of the leading figures in modern women's chess, contributing to China's strong presence in the sport.

help Ju Wenjun FAQ

When did Ju Wenjun become Women's World Chess Champion?

Ju won the title in 2018 by defeating fellow Chinese grandmaster Tan Zhongyi in a match. She then retained the championship through later knockout and match formats, establishing one of the longest modern reigns in women's chess.

Who has Ju Wenjun defeated in Women's World Championship matches?

Her title defenses have included matches against Aleksandra Goryachkina and Lei Tingjie. The match with Goryachkina was especially close and was decided in rapid tiebreaks after the classical games finished level.

What kind of chess is Ju Wenjun known for playing?

Ju is particularly respected for positional judgment, patient maneuvering, and technically strong endgames. That balanced style makes her difficult to unsettle even when an opponent avoids sharp opening theory.

Has Ju Wenjun competed outside women-only events?

Yes, she holds the unrestricted Grandmaster title and has played in open tournaments as well as elite women's competitions. FIDE awarded her the Grandmaster title in 2014, four years before she first became Women's World Champion.