In a stunning upset, Divya Deshmukh, a 19-year-old, has clinched the 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup, becoming the first Indian woman to win the title. She defeated Koneru Humpy in the final, an all-Indian match held in Baku, with a score of 1.5-0.5 following rapid tie-breaks. The classical games concluded in draws, showcasing the strategic prowess of both players. The first game saw Divya, playing with white, establish a strong position. The second game was a back and forth battle. During the tie-breaks, Divya seized her chance, capitalizing on Humpy’s mistakes under time pressure. Despite being considered the underdog against Humpy, a two-time World Rapid Champion, Divya remained calm and prevailed. This victory caps off an incredible year for the Nagpur prodigy, highlighted by her World Junior Championship win and a gold medal at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest. This World Cup triumph adds to her achievements, granting her the 88th Grandmaster title for India and making her the fourth Indian woman to attain the Grandmaster title.
