Was Women’s World Cup Victory the Ultimate Test of Resilience for Divya Deshmukh?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Divya Deshmukh won the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025.
- She is the first Indian woman to achieve this title.
- Her journey highlights the importance of resilience in achieving goals.
- Divya aims to inspire young girls globally.
- The finals showcased elite-level play and strategy.
New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) FIDE Women's World Cup gold medallist Divya Deshmukh, who also achieved the title of the 88th Grandmaster of India and became the fourth Indian woman to earn this distinction, regards her journey in the tournament as a ‘test of resilience. She aspires to inspire young girls to dream big and strive for global achievements.
On Friday, Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya, honored Divya and her final competitor, Koneru Humpy, in New Delhi.
“This tournament was undoubtedly the most significant challenge of resilience I have faced. The event's lengthy duration truly pushed my physical and emotional limits, testing my ability to manage nerves during critical moments,” Divya shared.
“Resilience has undeniably been a key factor in my progress, along with my relentless spirit to fight until the end. This mindset aided me throughout the tournament,” she told IANS.
At just 19 years old, Divya shocked the chess community by winning the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, making her the first Indian woman to seize this esteemed title. In a thrilling all-Indian final, she triumphed over the legendary Koneru Humpy with a score of 1.5–0.5 in rapid tiebreaks, marking a fairytale conclusion.
“I believe my victory will significantly benefit chess in India and serve as a source of motivation for many young girls watching with big dreams. I hope they realize they can achieve their aspirations. I trust this will contribute positively,” she added.
The classical games in the final culminated in tense draws, with both competitors demonstrating remarkable resilience and high-level strategy.
However, it was in the tiebreaks that the young prodigy turned the tables. After the first rapid game ended in a draw, Humpy faltered under time constraints in the second game, making critical errors that Divya exploited. With outstanding composure, Divya secured her victory, becoming the 2025 Women’s World Cup champion, the fourth Indian woman to attain the Grandmaster title, and the 88th Grandmaster of India overall.
“Experiencing such overwhelming support and affection from people upon returning to India has been incredible. Although the trip has been exhausting, my heart is filled with happiness,” she concluded.