Divya Deshmukh Makes History as First Indian to Win FIDE Women's World Cup

In a historic victory, Divya Deshmukh emerged triumphant at the FIDE Women's World Cup 2025, making her the first Indian to achieve this prestigious title. She defeated compatriot Koneru Humpy with a score of 2.5-1.5 in the tie-breaks on Monday in Batumi, underscoring a remarkable achievement for Indian chess.

Not only did Divya secure the Women's World Cup crown, but she also fulfilled her final Grandmaster norm, officially becoming India's 88th Grandmaster. Humpy's blunder of capturing the f pawn shifted the advantage to Divya in the decisive moments of the match.

The tournament saw Indian contenders locked at a 1-1 tie after the classical games, prompting tie-breaks to determine the winner. Now, Divya joins the ranks of India's female chess trailblazers like Humpy, R. Vaishali, and Harika Dronavalli. Her victory is seen as both historic and promising for the future of Indian chess.

(With inputs from agencies.)