In 2005, Koneru Humpy, for all her achievements, was passed over by the Bank of Baroda for a sponsorship, as the company preferred Rahul Dravid as a more saleable star.But two Asiad golds later, Humpy's first advertisement for a property developer will certainly go a long way in helping her achieve her target of becoming a Super Grand Master.After winning the gold medal at the Doha Asian games, she was approached for the modeling assignment, and the 19-year-old says she is open to doing many more. "I want to do more ads. I see cricketers and tennis players do it. The game becomes very popular. I want even Chess to be popular in the country. After all Chess was born in India," said Koneru Humpy, Asian Games Gold-Medallist.But selling products, the Vijaywada girl promises will not be at the cost of her performance in chess. Humpy is currently 33 ELO points away from being called "Super Grandmaster Champion" in the world of chess."This year I want to cross 2600 points in my rating. If that happens, I will get a good chance to be in the top 100 of men ranking list. Every single point is precious and I need 33, so I have to work very hard," said Koneru Humpy, Chess Player.Humpy says that not having a sponsor till July last year affected her ratings as she missed playing many international tournaments. However, India's queen of chess hopes that 2007 will be different, and her first assault will be at the Dubai Open in April.
Humpy gets first endorsement deal
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