India’s 19-year-old International Master Divya Deshmukh has carved her name into chess history by becoming the first-ever Indian player to advance to the final of the prestigious FIDE Women’s World Cup, held in Batumi, Georgia .
Seeded 15th with a rating of 2463, Divya overcame a series of formidable opponents, including former world champion Zhu Jiner of China in a thrilling rapid tiebreak and then defeated ex-world champion Tan Zhongyi in the semifinals . This semifinal triumph not only secured her spot in the final, but also earned her a coveted Grandmaster (GM) norm and a historic qualification for the 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament—a first for any Indian woman .
Deshmukh’s semifinal match showcased her remarkable resilience. Despite being in time trouble and under pressure, she capitalized on a late blunder by Tan Zhongyi around move 90, demonstrated by post-game analysis .
Her journey is being celebrated not only as a national triumph but as a milestone for Indian chess. She has inspired a new generation of players and firmly positioned herself among the world’s elite. In the final, she will face either Koneru Humpy or another top contender, as India looks set to make history yet again with potentially two finalists.
Why It Matters:
First Indian ever to reach the final of the FIDE Women’s World Cup.
Secured a GM norm and qualification for the prestigious Candidates Tournament.
Highlights a golden era for Indian women in chess, alongside top players like Humpy, Harika, and Vaishali.
