Prime Minister Modi congratulates Divya Deshmukh on becoming the FIDE (International Chess Federation) Women’s World Chess Champion in 2025.
New Delhi, India, July 28, 2025 — The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, congratulated Divya Deshmukh on becoming the FIDE (International Chess Federation) Women’s World Chess Champion 2025. “Koneru Humpy also displayed immense skill throughout the championship. Best wishes to both players in their future endeavors,” Mr. Modi stated.
Divya Deshmukh achieved a historic victory by defeating Koneru Humpy in a thrilling all-Indian final at the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup, making her the first Indian champion of this prestigious tournament. The championship took place in the picturesque city of Batumi, Georgia, where Divya showcased her exceptional skill and determination.
After two intense days of classical chess, where both players fought valiantly but ended in draws, the fate of the championship was decided in an electrifying tie-breaker round. In the first rapid tie-breaker, both competitors fought hard, resulting in another draw. However, in the second rapid tie-breaker, Divya displayed remarkable composure and strategic brilliance, ultimately triumphing over Humpy with the black pieces.
This impressive victory not only grants Divya the esteemed title of ‘Grandmaster’ but also secures her a spot in the highly competitive Candidates tournament, propelling her further into the elite ranks of the chess world.
Humpy is one of the most accomplished and compact players in the world of chess. For over two decades, she has been a prominent representative of Indian women’s chess. Her achievements include numerous titles, such as two World Rapid Championships and two gold medals from the Asian Games. Additionally, she has been a vital member of the team that won gold at the Chess Olympiad.
The all-Indian final was a remarkable showcase of India’s impressive growth in sports, highlighting the incredible talent the country has nurtured. The fact that the match extended to a tie-breaker serves as a testament to the fierce competition and skill present among the players, underscoring the rich depth of talent that India has produced over the years.
Sources: Prime Minister’s Office, Agencies
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