Batumi, Georgia:
Indian chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh, just 19 years old, scripted a historic triumph by winning the prestigious FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, defeating India’s top-ranked player Koneru Humpy in a tense rapid tiebreak in the final held in Batumi, Georgia.
This victory carries monumental significance as it earned Divya her final Grandmaster (GM) norm, officially making her the fourth Indian woman to achieve the coveted GM title. She also becomes the 88th Indian chess player overall to receive this highest title in the sport.
A stunning run to the top
Seeded 15th at the start of the tournament, Divya showcased extraordinary skill, resilience, and tactical sharpness throughout her campaign. She overcame several top-ranked and higher-seeded players with impressive preparation and aggressive play that caught many by surprise.
Her journey included notable victories over strong international opponents, reflecting her fearless approach and strategic maturity far beyond her years. Each round reinforced her growing reputation as one of India’s brightest chess stars.
The grand finale: tension, precision, and triumph
The final against the vastly experienced Koneru Humpy, aged 38, began with two classical games. Both games were tightly contested and ended in draws, setting the stage for the decisive rapid tiebreaks.
In the first rapid game, playing with White pieces, Divya held her ground in a balanced encounter that ended in a draw. It was the second rapid game, with Divya commanding the Black pieces, that proved decisive.
Under intense time pressure, Humpy made a series of endgame inaccuracies. Displaying remarkable calm and tactical clarity, Divya capitalised on these mistakes to seize victory — and with it, the World Cup title.
A milestone moment for Indian chess
Divya’s victory is not just about winning a major world title; it also marks a historic moment in Indian chess. By earning her final GM norm through this event, she joins the elite list of Indian women Grandmasters that includes Koneru Humpy herself, Harika Dronavalli, and Vaishali Rameshbabu.
Divya’s achievement is even more remarkable given her age and the fact that she was not widely considered among the top favourites when the tournament began. Her fearless attacking style and meticulous preparation against stronger opponents demonstrated her immense potential and fighting spirit.
Inspiring a new generation
At just 19, Divya Deshmukh’s journey from being an underdog to becoming World Cup champion and Grandmaster is an inspiring story of talent, perseverance, and self-belief. Her success will undoubtedly motivate countless young chess players in India and around the world.
With this monumental triumph, Divya has firmly announced her arrival on the global stage — and her journey has only just begun.
