India's rising chess star Divya Deshmukh not only made history by winning the 2025 FIDE Women's World Cup but also secured a substantial reward for her outstanding performance.
With her final victory over compatriot and seasoned Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, Divya earned $50,000, which translates to approximately ₹41.6 lakh. Humpy, who finished as the runner-up, received $35,000, or around ₹29.1 lakh.

The 2025 edition of the Women's World Cup had a total prize pool of $691,250, distributed among 107 players across various stages of the tournament. While the top two players received the largest shares, the prize structure was designed to fairly compensate all participants based on how far they advanced.
This well-structured reward system ensures that even players who exit in the early rounds are recognized for their efforts. The consistency in the top prize amounts, which match those from the 2021 and 2023 editions, reflects FIDE's commitment to maintaining equity and prestige, while the slight increase in the total prize pool highlights the tournament's growing financial value and popularity.
Divya's triumph is not just a personal achievement but a proud moment for Indian chess. At only 19 years old, the Nagpur-based International Master became the first Indian woman ever to win the FIDE Women's World Cup, a feat that brings both prestige and financial reward.
Meanwhile, Humpy's journey to the final also underlined her enduring class and consistency on the global stage. Her runner-up finish, coupled with a significant prize, is a testament to her continued relevance among the world's elite.
Both players' earnings from the tournament are well-deserved, and their performances will likely inspire a new generation of Indian chess talent.