Indian chess sensation Divya Deshmukh stunned the chess world by clinching the 2025 Women’s Chess World Cup title. At just 19, she defeated India’s top women’s player, Koneru Humpy, in a thrilling tiebreak. This victory marks a historic moment for Indian chess, showcasing its rising dominance. Deshmukh’s win earned her the prestigious Grandmaster title, making her India’s 88th Grandmaster and the fourth Indian woman to achieve this feat. Read through to know more on how Judit Polgar has reacted to Divya Deshmukh’s triumph.
Divya Deshmukh’s Chess World Cup Journey to Glory
Deshmukh’s path to the World Cup title was no easy feat. She faced Humpy, a seasoned Grandmaster, in two classical matches on July 26 and 27, 2025. Both games ended in draws, pushing the contest to a high-stakes tiebreak. Deshmukh displayed nerves of steel, outplaying Humpy in the first set of tiebreakers. Her strategic brilliance and composure under pressure secured the championship. This third edition of the Women’s Chess World Cup, held in 2025, highlighted India’s growing chess prowess. Judit Polgar tweets about Divya Deshmukh and further cherishes the Indian talent.
Also Read: Divya Deshmukh Wins FIDE Women’s World Championship 2025 in Epic All-Indian Final
Judit Polgar Reacts to Divya Deshmukh’s Feat
Indian chess continues to amaze the global community, and Deshmukh’s triumph is proof. Hungarian legend Judit Polgar praised her, tweeting, “Congrats to @DivyaDeshmukh05, who has clinched the 2025 Women’s Chess World Cup title, defeating her compatriot Koneru Humpy in a tense tiebreak. Indian chess is just unbelievable! But do not forget: it has reasons. #ChessConnectsUs #India.” Judit Polgar admires Divya Deshmukh who adds on to the new wave of Indian talent. Deshmukh joins an elite group of Indian women Grandmasters, including Humpy, Dronavalli Harika, and R Vaishali. At 38, Humpy, a Grandmaster since 2002, remains a titan, but the World Cup title slipped away again. However, with 88 Grandmasters, India solidifies its chess superpower status in the sport.
Also Read: India’s Epic Return: Hosting FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 After 23 Years
