In a sensational display of talent, grit, and maturity beyond her years, 19-year-old Divya Deshmukh has made history by winning the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup 2025, becoming the first Indian woman champion of the prestigious tournament. Held in Batumi, Georgia, the final saw a dramatic clash of generations as Divya defeated India’s legendary Grandmaster Koneru Humpy in a nail-biting tiebreaker.
What makes this win even more phenomenal is that Divya had none of the three required GM norms before the tournament. By clinching the World Cup, she not only earned the coveted Grandmaster title but also became India’s fourth woman to reach this elite rank—following in the footsteps of Humpy, Harika Dronavalli, and Vaishali Rameshbabu.
The final was fiercely fought. After two classical games ended in draws, the match moved into rapid tie-breaks. In the second game with Black pieces, Divya seized her moment and outplayed the experienced Humpy, aged 38, to claim victory. It was more than just a title match—it was a symbolic moment where India’s next generation took center stage.
Divya’s triumph adds to her growing list of achievements. She won the World Junior Championship last year in Ahmedabad and played a vital role in India’s historic Chess Olympiad gold in Budapest. Her consistent rise proves she’s not just a rising star, but a force in global women’s chess.
With this win, Divya Deshmukh qualifies for the Women’s Candidates Tournament, setting her on the path to challenge for the Women’s World Championship. A champion in every sense, Divya has not only etched her name in history but also inspired a generation of young Indian chess aspirants.