Chess Athlete Irene Sukandar Always Strives Independently, Reza Arap Reveals Interest in Sponsorship

Irene Kharisma Sukandar, an Indonesian female chess grandmaster, is back in the spotlight after revealing that almost all the costs of the tournaments she participates in come from her own pocket. Despite having brought honor to the nation in various international competitions, she admits to not receiving full support from the authorities.

This statement was made by Irene during a live broadcast on Reza Arap's YouTube channel. In the discussion, Irene revealed that the last tournament she participated in, held in New York at the end of last year, was fully funded by herself. The competition successfully led her to achieve the ninth rank in the world.

Upon hearing this, Reza Arap appeared shocked and questioned whether Irene still carries the name of Indonesia in every tournament she participates in. Firmly, Irene responded that she continues to compete under the name of Indonesia even though she has to fund everything herself. This prompted a reaction from Reza Arap, who then wrote a post on X. Read the full review.

1. Irene Sukandar's Journey in the World of Chess

Chess Athlete Irene Sukandar and Reza Arap. (instagram/irene_sukandar)

Irene Sukandar is known as one of the best chess athletes Indonesia has ever had. Since she was young, she has achieved various accomplishments at both the national and international levels. Her perseverance in training and her love for the world of chess have enabled her to earn the title of Woman Grandmaster (WGM), an extraordinary achievement for an Indonesian chess athlete.

2. Tournament Costs Covered Personally

Despite her brilliant achievements, Irene revealed that for many years, she had to personally fund her travels to various tournaments. She even had to participate in several other competitions just to raise funds so she could compete in larger championships. This situation has certainly posed a significant challenge for her as a professional athlete.

3. Tournament in New York and World Ranking

Chess Athlete Irene Sukandar and Reza Arap. (instagram/irene_sukandar)

At the end of last year, Irene participated in a world tournament in New York, which took place during Christmas and New Year. In that tournament, she managed to achieve the ninth position in the world, a proud accomplishment. However, behind her success, not many know that all travel and accommodation expenses were borne by Irene herself without assistance from the federation or government.

4. Reza Arap Responds to Irene's Struggles

Chess athlete Irene Sukandar and Reza Arap. (instagram/ybrap)

While being a guest on a live broadcast on Reza Arap's YouTube channel, Irene revealed the bitter reality she faces as an Indonesian chess athlete. Reza, who heard her story, felt furious and lamented the lack of support given to Irene. He even openly expressed his admiration for Irene's dedication in continuing to fight for Indonesia's name on the international stage.

5. Reza Arap's Post That Went Viral on Social Media

Chess athlete Irene Sukandar and Reza Arap. (x/@yourbae)

Feeling dissatisfied with the situation Irene is facing, Reza Arap expressed his frustration through a post on X. In his post, he mentioned that since childhood until now, Irene has always used her personal funds to compete. He also highlighted how Irene proudly stated "I did it for my country" during her live broadcast, even though she did not receive assistance from the relevant parties.

"From little Irene to the last world championship in NYC, she has always used her own money. She even has to participate in tournaments to fund herself, and last night she still boldly said 'I did it for my country' on stream. No need to ask them. Just me." He wrote on X.

6. Support and Public Response

Chess athlete Irene Sukandar and Reza Arap. (instagram/ybrap)

After the post went viral, it wasn't just Reza Arap who supported Irene. Many netizens also voiced their support for Irene Sukandar. Some criticized the lack of attention given to talented chess athletes like Irene, while others hoped that the government and the chess federation would pay more attention to athletes who have brought honor to the nation.

That’s the latest news from chess athlete Irene Sukandar, who always strives for independence, and Reza Arap expressed interest in providing sponsorship. Stay tuned for more celebrity news. If not now, when?

(kpl/kpc)