Indian chess prodigy makes history by securing a spot in the Women’s World Cup Final.
In a significant moment for Indian chess, International Master Divya Deshmukh achieved a historic breakthrough by defeating China’s former Women’s World Champion, Grandmaster Tan Zhongyi. This victory took her to the final of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025.
At just 19, Divya established herself as one of the best players in the game by being the first Indian woman to reach the final of this well-known knockout tournament. In addition to setting a career high, her victory ensures her a spot in the 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament, which is a prerequisite for contending for the world championship.
Divya used her skills and strategy to navigate a tough middlegame in a close match. She won a high-stakes classical match that demanded strong nerves. However, she admitted afterward that her performance wasn’t perfect, noting missed chances and a difficult middlegame.
Her performance was notable not only for the result but for the preparation and strategic choices she employed. In a shift from her usual style, she opted for 3.c3 against the Sicilian, a line she rarely plays in classical formats, possibly as a surprise weapon. Though the opening phase showed signs of hesitation, she held her ground and gradually built up pressure.
The game-changing moment occurred late in the match when Tan Zhongyi, with only a few minutes remaining, failed to make a brilliant queen sacrifice that would have changed the outcome. She instead selected a line that gave Divya the advantage again, allowing her to successfully capitalize and move into a winning rook endgame.
Along with winning, Divya received a lot of praise for her ability to remain composed under pressure and for having a level of strategic maturity that was well above her years. With her semifinal victory, she also earned a Grandmaster norm, advancing her one step closer to the sport’s most coveted title.
As she prepares to compete for the Women’s World Cup title, Divya Deshmukh is a symbol of the new era of Indian chess: brash, fearless, and ready to make history.
