Leon Mendonca’s journey: Chess, setbacks, and the road to World Cup reserve

From sibling rivalry in Goa to becoming the state’s second Grandmaster, 19-year-old Leon Luke Mendonca’s journey has been shaped by family sacrifice and resilience. After illness marred his Tata Steel Masters debut, the teenager rebounded with consistent performances to earn a World Cup reserve spot in Goa, underlining his persistence in chasing the next level of global chess.