Divya Deshmukh, a 19-year-old chess prodigy from Nagpur, creates history by winning the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 and becoming India’s youngest woman Grandmaster. A new era in Indian chess begins.
In a moment that will be etched in the history of Indian sports, 19-year-old Divya Deshmukh from Nagpur conquered the chess world by winning the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 in Batumi, Georgia. With this phenomenal win, she not only brought home the prestigious title but also became India’s youngest woman to earn the Grandmaster title.
At just 19 years and 83 days old, Divya’s rise is nothing short of remarkable. Her name, which means “divine,” now echoes with glory across the international chess circuit.
A Victory That Symbolizes a Generational Shift
Divya’s path to the crown wasn’t easy. She faced none other than Koneru Humpy, a legend of Indian chess and the country’s first female Grandmaster, in a nerve-wracking final. The classical rounds saw both players locked in an intense battle, ending in draws. But in the rapid tiebreaks, Divya’s sharp instincts and cool-headed execution gave her the edge. She capitalized on a rare error from Humpy and sealed her place in history.
This clash was more than just a final — it symbolized a passing of the torch from one generation to another.
From a Curious Five-Year-Old to World Champion
Divya’s journey began in the most unexpected way. At age five, while accompanying her sister to a badminton class, she stumbled into a nearby chess room. That accidental encounter sparked a lifelong passion.
“I liked the sport. Then, I just stuck with chess,” Divya once shared in an interview. That simple decision laid the foundation for what would become one of India’s most inspiring sporting journeys.
Over the years, Divya steadily climbed the ladder — becoming a national champion in age-group categories, representing India at the Chess Olympiad, and winning the World Junior Championship in 2024.
But the FIDE Women’s World Cup was her toughest challenge yet. For 24 grueling days, she battled some of the world’s strongest players. She entered the tournament without a single Grandmaster norm — but left as a Grandmaster and World Cup champion.
“It Was Fate,” Says Divya
Divya’s emotions overflowed after the win. As the final move was made, she leaned back in disbelief, then rushed into her mother’s arms. It was a moment that brought tears to millions.
“I think it was fate, me getting the Grandmaster title this way,” she said, her voice still quivering. “Before the tournament, I didn’t even have one norm. I was thinking I could maybe earn one here. And in the end, I became a Grandmaster.”
Her humility is as powerful as her gameplay. Reflecting on her draw in the first classical game, she admitted, “That felt like a loss. I had seen everything beforehand. So I was disappointed.” Then, flashing a smile, she added, “I definitely need to learn endgames.”
India’s Reign in Chess Continues
Divya’s triumph marks another milestone in India’s growing dominance in the global chess arena. With Dommaraju Gukesh already reigning as the men’s World Champion, and now Divya holding the women’s crown, India stands tall on both sides of the board.
Commenting on the dramatic final, five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand said, “Dramatic! Humpy just collapsed. This was one of those situations where nerves get the better of you.”
But Divya’s win was about much more than nerves. It was a testament to her grit, discipline, and belief in herself. Her victory sends a strong message to the world — Indian chess is here to stay, and it’s only getting stronger.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Candidates Tournament
Divya’s World Cup win has also secured her a coveted spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament, which will determine who gets to challenge the reigning World Champion — her compatriot, Gukesh. The possibility of an all-Indian World Championship match has never been more real.
A Role Model for the Next Generation
Divya Deshmukh’s journey from a curious five-year-old in a modest chess class to the world champion is a beacon of hope and inspiration, especially for young girls across India.
“This means a lot,” she said after her victory. “But there’s a lot more to achieve. I’m hoping this is just the start.”
Indeed, for Divya and for Indian chess, this is just the beginning of something extraordinary.