Divya Deshmukh Becomes First Indian Woman to Win FIDE World Cup
In 2013, a shy young girl in a pink frock proudly introduced herself as Divya Deshmukh after winning the National Under-9 Chess Championship in Chennai. Fast forward to 2025, and that little girl has etched her name in the history books.
On July 28 in Batumi, Georgia, Divya Deshmukh became the first Indian woman to win the FIDE Chess World Cup. In a gripping all-Indian final, she defeated legendary Grandmaster Koneru Humpy via tiebreakers to not only take home the crown but also earn the prestigious Grandmaster title. At just 19, she is now India’s 88th Grandmaster and the fourth woman from the country to hold that title.
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The final was no less than a chess thriller. After both classical games ended in draws, it all came down to rapid tiebreakers. In the first, Divya, playing white, held her ground with perpetual checks, forcing a draw after 81 moves. The second game saw wild swings in advantage, with both players missing crucial opportunities.
But experience wasn’t enough to stop the younger contender. On move 69, Humpy's misstep gave Divya the edge she needed. With a passed pawn threatening promotion, Humpy had no option but to concede. A gracious handshake sealed Divya’s biggest victory to date.
Tears, Triumphs, and a Mother's Sacrifice
As FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich congratulated her, Divya held back her emotions—but only for a moment. Soon, tears flowed freely, matched by those of her mother Namrata, who had left her medical career to support Divya’s dreams.
It hasn’t been an easy journey. With no sponsor and a sport that demands international travel and costly coaching, the financial strain was real. But with this win, Divya also pockets $50,000 in prize money—a much-needed reward for years of hard work and sacrifice.
A Proud Day for Indian Chess
This historic win doesn’t just belong to Divya alone. It marks a high point for Indian women’s chess. Both Divya and Humpy have now qualified for the Candidates Tournament, keeping India’s hopes alive for the World Championship title.
Divya Deshmukh may just be 19, but she’s already redefining what’s possible for young Indian women in the world of chess. The little girl in the pink frock is now a name the world watches closely—a princess who could one day wear the crown of World Champion.
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