Batumi, Georgia – In a historic achievement for Indian chess, Divya Deshmukh clinched the prestigious FIDE Women’s World Cup title on Monday, defeating veteran Grandmaster Koneru Humpy in a closely fought tie-break match. The 18-year-old secured victory with a score of 2.5–1.5, capping off a sensational run at the tournament.
With this monumental win, Deshmukh not only claimed the gold medal but also completed her final Grandmaster norm, officially becoming India’s 88th Grandmaster. Humpy, a former World Championship finalist and one of India’s greatest chess players, finished with the silver medal. Tan Zhongyi of China took home bronze.
🇮🇳 A Proud Moment for Indian Chess
Celebrated Indian Grandmaster and coach Srinath Narayanan hailed the achievement, calling it a “proud moment for both Divya and the nation.” Speaking to ANI, Srinath remarked, “Divya winning the World Cup and becoming a Grandmaster is a remarkable accomplishment. It’s not just an individual triumph but a moment of national pride. With Humpy finishing second, both have also qualified for the Candidates Tournament—bringing us closer to seeing an Indian Women’s World Champion.”
Deshmukh’s rise comes during an exciting era for Indian chess, which has seen a rapid emergence of young talents and historic milestones.
🏆 India’s Chess Renaissance
The victory adds to India’s growing list of international chess triumphs. Just last year, GM D Gukesh made headlines by winning the 2024 FIDE World Championship in Singapore, becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion.
India is doing incredibly well in chess,” Srinath added. “We won medals at the Olympiad in both Open and Women’s categories. Gukesh is the reigning World Champion, and now we have a Women’s World Cup winner in Divya. It’s a golden period for Indian chess.
🌟 The Rise of a Star
Divya Deshmukh’s victory marks a breakthrough not just in her career, but for women’s chess in India. Her cool composure, tactical brilliance, and relentless drive have now placed her among the elite of the chess world.
As the spotlight shines on her remarkable accomplishment, one thing is certain — a new star has been born, and Indian chess is heading toward a bright and promising future.