7. End Game

In a flashback to 1957, Beth and her mother visit Beth's biological father, who refuses to take Beth in. In the present of 1968, Jolene and Beth attend Mr. Shaibel's funeral. Afterwards, Beth revisits the orphanage and breaks down when she discovers Shaibel followed her career up until his death. Jolene helps her quit drinking with a physical fitness regimen and loans her the money to attend the Moscow Invitational. Beth wins several games, gaining many Russian fans. In the final game against Borgov, Beth plays the Queen's Gambit. The game is adjourned after forty moves.

Beth reconnects with Townes, who is covering the tournament for the Lexington Herald-Leader. Beth receives a phone call from Benny, who has assembled Harry, Matt, Mike, Wexler, and Levertov to analyze her game with Borgov. When play resumes that evening, Beth is able to visualize the game without tranquilizer pills and beats Borgov after refusing a draw offer. Beth is celebrated widely by the locals gathered outside the venue. On the drive back to the airport, Beth exits the car and heads for a park where local men play chess. They recognize her and greet her warmly, inviting her to play.