The 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup came to a dramatic and historic close on July 28th in Batumi, Georgia, as 19-year-old Divya Deshmukh etched her name into chess history. With nerves of steel and brilliance on the board, Divya became the youngest ever Women’s World Cup winner – and the first Indian player to claim the prestigious title.
Even more compelling was the all-Indian final that captured the attention of the chess world: Divya Deshmukh vs. Koneru Humpy, a generational clash between India’s rising star and the country’s queen of chess. Humpy, a legend in her own right and one of the most respected names in women’s chess, fought valiantly, but it was Divya who triumphed, marking a symbolic shift and a bright new chapter for Indian chess.
One of the most moving moments of the event came just after the final, when Divya rushed to embrace her mother. It was a quiet but powerful reminder that while chess is played alone at the board, no player truly walks the journey alone. Behind every success story is a web of support – family, coaches, mentors, and of course – mothers, whose sacrifices and strength so often go unseen. Divya’s victory was not just her own; it was shared with everyone who stood by her side, believed in her potential, and helped her grow into the champion she has become.
A Showcase of Asian Excellence
The final four of the tournament highlighted the growing power of Asia in women’s chess. With two Indian players in the final and two Chinese stars in the semifinals, the event showcased an intense regional rivalry and rising (or should we say ongoing?) dominance.
Top Four Standings – 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup
🥇 1st Place – Divya Deshmukh (India)
🥈 2nd Place – Humpy Koneru (India)
🥉 3rd Place – Tan Zhongyi (China)
🏅 4th Place – Lei Tingjie (China)
The top three finishers – Divya Deshmukh, Humpy Koneru and Tan Zhongyi – also earned coveted spots in the next FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament, bringing them one step closer to a shot at the World Championship title.
A Tournament to Remember
Held from July 6th to July 28th in the beautiful Black Sea city of Batumi, the 2025 Women’s World Cup featured a thrilling knockout format with 107 players from 46 federations, including seventeen of the world’s top twenty female players. The event was a powerful mix of elite talent, seasoned experience, and rising stars. With a $50,000 first prize and a path to the Candidates at stake, the level of competition was as fierce as it was inspiring.
A Title and a Title: GM Divya Deshmukh
Divya’s triumph not only crowns her the new World Cup champion—it also earns her the coveted Grandmaster title, a remarkable achievement at just 19 years old. Her fearless play, sharp intuition, and calm demeanor under pressure captivated fans throughout the event. From prodigy to powerhouse, Divya Deshmukh has firmly established herself among the world’s elite.
A New Era for Indian Women’s Chess
This landmark victory signals a new era for Indian women’s chess. With both Deshmukh and Humpy reaching the final, India demonstrated its depth, legacy, and future promise. It was also a proud moment for Asian chess, underscoring the region’s commanding presence on the global stage.
As the world celebrates Divya’s extraordinary achievement, young girls everywhere – especially across India and Asia – have a new hero to look up to. The future of women’s chess has never looked brighter.
Photos by Anna Shtourman/FIDE
