Chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh, at the age of 19, has clinched the FIDE Women’s World Cup title in Batumi, Georgia, by overcoming the formidable Koneru Humpy in a tiebreak. This victory is a momentous occasion, making Divya India’s fourth woman grandmaster.
The final match was a fascinating encounter, pitting the rising star Divya against Humpy, who pioneered as the first Indian woman to attain the grandmaster status. Before this achievement, only two other Indian women had matched Humpy’s remarkable accomplishment.
The competition was fierce, with the classical games ending in draws. Divya showed promising play in the initial game while utilizing the White pieces, but a late misstep enabled Humpy to secure a draw. The match proceeded to rapid tiebreaks on Monday.
Divya, though relatively inexperienced compared to Humpy’s deep expertise and speed format proficiency, delivered a remarkable performance. She gained the advantage in the second game, overpowering the experienced grandmaster to seize the title.
Speaking on the FIDE broadcast, Divya commented, “It definitely means a lot. There’s a lot more to achieve. I’m hoping this is just the start.”
This triumph is not solely a personal milestone; it signifies a major triumph for Indian chess. She previously shone as the World Junior Girls’ Champion. During a challenging period, she played a crucial role in India’s historic gold in the women’s team section at the previous year’s Chess Olympiad in Budapest, while also earning an individual gold medal on her board.
By this victory, Divya has written a new chapter in Indian chess and moved past celebrated figures like Humpy.