Divya Deshmukh's Unyielding Will: A Golden Era for Indian Chess

Susan Polgar has commended Divya Deshmukh for her remarkable World Cup victory, attributing the success to her unwavering determination and mental toughness. At just 19, Divya clinched victory against her seasoned compatriot Koneru Humpy in a thrilling tiebreaker in Batumi, Georgia.

Divya's triumphant performance now sees her qualifying for the 2026 Candidates Tournament and becoming India's 88th Grandmaster. Entering the competition as a dark horse, her accomplishment underscores a watershed moment for Indian chess, reflecting on the sport's burgeoning talent pool.

This achievement, noted by chess legend Polgar, is part of what she terms as India's 'Golden Age' of chess, with talented individuals like Viswanathan Anand guiding the younger generation. Polgar encouraged both Divya and her young peers to persist in their efforts, suggesting they ride the momentum as the competitive landscape intensifies.

(With inputs from agencies.)