Divya Deshmukh Creates History, Becomes First Indian to Win FIDE Women’s World Cup

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In a landmark moment for Indian chess, 19-year-old Divya Deshmukh scripted history by defeating veteran Grandmaster Koneru Humpy in the final of the FIDE Women's World Cup 2025. With a 2.5-1.5 victory in the tiebreaks on Monday, Divya became the first Indian woman to clinch the prestigious title.

After the two classical games of the final ended in a deadlock at 1-1, the contest progressed to rapid tiebreaks-two games of 10 minutes each with a 10-second increment per move. The pressure was immense, but it was the teenager from Nagpur who held her nerves when it mattered the most.

Divya had the advantage of playing the first rapid game with the white pieces, having won the toss on the previous night. However, despite a promising position early on, she was unable to break through Humpy's solid defense, and the first tiebreaker concluded in a draw.

With both players locked at 1.5 points apiece, the decisive moment came in the second rapid encounter. The game initially followed a cautious rhythm, resembling another likely draw. But everything changed on move 40 when Humpy, under time pressure, made a critical mistake that shifted the momentum.

Sensing an opening, Divya shifted gears and launched an aggressive assault. Her precise calculation and relentless pressure left Humpy struggling to regain control. Though the seasoned Grandmaster fought back with resilience, the damage was already done. After 75 intense moves, Humpy was forced to resign, sealing Divya's place in history.

This monumental win not only brings Divya global recognition but also rewards her with a $50,000 prize and the tournament trophy. Her victory signals a generational shift in Indian women's chess, with the rising star outplaying one of India's most decorated players on the grandest stage.

Divya's triumph is being hailed as a major breakthrough for the country's chess scene, inspiring a new wave of young talent eager to follow in her footsteps.