Last Updated:
Divya Deshmukh made history by reaching the final of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, defeating Tan Zhongyi in Batumi, Georgia.
Divya Deshmukh after sealing her spot in final of FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 (X)
India’s Divya Deshmukh made history by securing her place in the final of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 as she defeated China’s Tan Zhongyi in semifinal Game 2 in Batumi, Georgia, on Wednesday.
The Indian chess star outmaneuvered her opponent with the white pieces to achieve a 1.5-0.5 victory in the semifinal, following a draw in the first game on Tuesday.
After her victory, Divya was overcome by emotions as the 19-year-old sat in her seat soaking in the occassion.
WATCH:
How Divya Deshmukh Made History?
Divya played an intense Alapin Sicilian Defense game to secure a match that saw numerous twists and turns. She capitalised on a mid-game mistake by Zhongyi to gain a two-pawn advantage before exchanging queens. Although she briefly lost her advantage, Deshmukh quickly recovered and maintained her lead. Tingjie eventually resigned after Deshmukh gained a rook advantage.
Earlier, the teenage sensation had knocked out second seed Zhu Jiner from China in the fourth round before eliminating her compatriot, Harika Dronavalli, in the quarterfinals.
This victory also earned Deshmukh a spot in the Candidates tournament scheduled for 2026. At 19 years old, she became the first Indian to reach the final of the FIDE Women’s World Cup.
Former Women’s World Chess Champion, Susan Polgar, took to social media to congratulate Divya Deshmukh.
“Divya Deshmukh defeated Tan Zhongyi to advance to the 2025 Women’s World Cup final! Just as in her World Championship match against Ju Wenjun, Tan’s endgame play let her down,” she posted on X, formerly Twitter.
“But big credit to Divya for grinding out over 100 moves! For her effort, she also earned a GM norm as well as a spot in the Candidates, according to FIDE! Triple congratulations!”
“Humpy Koneru missed a big opportunity to advance as well. She had big chances but failed to convert against Lei Tingie. They will head to the playoff tomorrow,” she added.
Divya Deshmukh 🇮🇳 defeated Tan Zhongyi 🇨🇳 to advance to the 2025 Women’s World Cup final! Just as in her World Championship match against Ju Wenjun 🇨🇳, Tan’s endgame play let her down. But big credit to Divya for grinding out over 100 moves! For her effort, she also earned a GM… pic.twitter.com/3emDYbFfpf— Susan Polgar (@SusanPolgar) July 23, 2025
What’s Next For Divya Deshmukh?
Divya will now face the winner of the second semifinal between top seed Lei Tingjie from China and India’s No. 1 Koneru Humpy. The Humpy vs. Lei game has moved to tiebreaks after the players drew both Classical legs.
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha…Read More
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha… Read More
view comments
- First Published:
