The premise that men consistently rank higher than women in chess due to biological factors is inaccurate. Various research suggests that historical, cultural, and societal reasons significantly contribute to the gender gap in chess. Factors such as societal biases, limited opportunities for women, lack of female role models, and differences in upbringing that promote chess in boys more often than girls play crucial roles in shaping competitive chess participation and achievement rates. Recognizing socio-cultural factors enables efforts to address these and aims for a more inclusive, diverse, and fair environment for male and female chess players.