Odisha International Master Padmini Rout crashed out in the second round of the 1st FIDE Women World Cup, losing both the rapid tie-break games to Iranian IM Sarasadat Khademalsharieh in Sochi, Russia today. The contest between the two IMs went to the rapid tie-break format after both the two classical games ended in draws.

With an overall 3-1 win against Padmini, Iranian Sarasadat reached the pre-quarterfinal stage where she would take on Azerbaijan IM Gunay Mammadzada. Earlier in the first round, Padmini beat Azerbaijan WGM Ulviyya Fataliyeva twice to advance to Round 2.

Commenting on her performance, Padmini said, “I felt I was well prepared but my opponent played better and was more resourceful than me. The past year my whole focus had been on the World Cup, avoiding all distractions and not even keeping a plan B (probably one should have backup plans because nothing is the end and life continues). But I am happy and can be content with the fact that I gave my 100%.”

In a statement, posted in Twitter, Padmini added, “Thanks to my company Indian Oil for always being there without whom it would not be possible for me to continue with my sports. Thanks to Govt of Odisha for sponsoring for my training for the World Cup without which would have been hard to keep the momentum. Thanks to the dynamic AICF for taking care of us and to Govt of India for sponsorship the trip.’’

Meanwhile, Indian Grand Master Dronavalli Harika marched into the pre-quarterfinals, defeating Indonesian IM Medina Warda Aulia 2-0. Harika, who got a bye in the first round, would next meet Russain Grand Master Valentina Gunina.

Among four Indian players in the fray, R Vaishali and Bhakti Kulkarni also bowed out of the World Cup, suffering defeats in the second round. The best 64 women players of the world are competing in the tournament, which would conclude on August 4.