Published on: July 28, 2025 at 20:56
Divya Deshmukh chess Womens World Cup 2025: At just 19, India’s Divya Deshmukh made history on July 28, 2025—becoming the first Indian woman ever to win the Chess Women’s World Cup, defeating veteran Grandmaster Koneru Humpy in a nail‑biting tie-break in Batumi, Georgia. With this win, she also claimed the coveted Grandmaster title, becoming India’s 88th GM and only the fourth woman from the country to achieve it|
In a monumental achievement for Indian chess, 19-year-old Divya Deshmukh has etched her name in history by winning the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, becoming the first Indian woman to claim this prestigious title. Held in Batumi, Georgia, the final match saw Divya go head-to-head with Indian chess legend Koneru Humpy, eventually emerging victorious in an intense tie-breaker. With this win, Divya has not only lifted the trophy but has also officially earned the highly coveted Grandmaster (GM) title, making her the fourth Indian woman ever to do so and India’s 88th Grandmaster overall.
This victory is more than just a personal milestone for Divya—it marks a new era for women’s chess in India. The win also qualifies her for the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026, putting her one step closer to competing for the Women’s World Chess Championship. Her win is being celebrated across the country as a symbol of rising young talent, especially as India’s younger players continue to dominate international chess tournaments.
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Divya’s journey in the tournament was nothing short of extraordinary. She defeated some of the strongest names in women’s chess, starting with a sensational victory over Harika Dronavalli in the quarterfinals, winning both games in the rapid tie-breaks. In the semifinals, she faced former Women’s World Champion Tan Zhongyi of China and beat her with an aggressive display of tactical brilliance. The final showdown against Koneru Humpy ended in two classical draws, pushing the game into tie-breaks, where Divya remained composed under pressure and clinched the win.
Divya Deshmukh chess Womens World Cup 2025: About Divya Deshmukh
Born on December 9, 2005, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, Divya has been making waves in the chess world from a young age. Her parents, both doctors, supported her passion early on. She became a Woman Grandmaster (WGM) in 2021 and was awarded the International Master (IM) title in 2023. Over the past two years, she has steadily climbed the world rankings, winning the Asian Women’s Championship in 2023 and the World U-20 Girls Championship in 2024. Notably, she also defeated world champion Ju Wenjun in the Tata Steel Women’s Rapid Tournament 2023, proving her capability to take on the world’s best.
Divya Deshmukh chess Womens World Cup 2025: Rapid Rise: Divya’s Road to Glory
Divya’s win is not just historic—it is symbolic. It showcases the coming of age of India’s new generation of chess stars. She is part of a powerful wave of young talent that includes the likes of Praggnanandhaa, Gukesh, and Vaishali. These young stars are not only representing India on the world stage but are also redefining what’s possible in the world of chess.
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This win also comes with tangible rewards. In addition to the title and GM status, Divya will receive a prize of $50,000 USD and the opportunity to compete in elite FIDE events. But more importantly, she has become a role model for millions of young chess players, especially girls, across the country. Her determination, calm demeanor under pressure, and tactical sharpness set her apart and serve as an inspiration to aspiring players.
As Divya prepares for the Candidates Tournament 2026, the chess world will be watching closely. If she continues this momentum, there’s every chance she could become India’s first Women’s World Chess Champion. For now, her triumph at the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 will be remembered as the day a new Indian chess queen was crowned