In a proud moment for Indian sports, 18-year-old Grandmaster Divya Deshmukh has become the FIDE Women’s World Chess Champion 2025. She triumphed in a historic all-Indian final against legendary player Koneru Humpy, marking a milestone for Indian chess.
PM Modi Applauds India’s Chess Icons
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his admiration on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He wrote:
“A historic final featuring two outstanding Indian chess players! Proud of the young Divya Deshmukh on becoming FIDE Women’s World Chess Champion 2025. Congratulations to her for this remarkable feat, which will inspire several youngsters. Koneru Humpy has also displayed immense prowess throughout the championship. Best wishes to both players for their future endeavours.”
This heartfelt message not only recognizes Divya’s brilliance but also acknowledges Humpy’s consistent contribution to the game.
The 2025 Women’s Chess Championship final was a thrilling face-off between two Indian champions. Divya Deshmukh showed calm under pressure and calculated precision throughout the tournament. Her win brings India its first Women’s World Chess title since 2000.
Koneru Humpy, a seasoned grandmaster and former World Rapid Champion, fought valiantly, proving once again why she remains a top figure in global chess. The all-India final itself was a strong indicator of India’s growing dominance in the chess world.
Divya Deshmukh: India’s Rising Star
Divya, born in Nagpur, Maharashtra, has risen quickly through the ranks of international chess. She holds the title of Woman Grandmaster and has been one of the youngest prodigies to represent India in various international events.
In 2022, she was part of the Indian team that won bronze at the Chess Olympiad. Since then, she has consistently ranked among the top Indian female players.
Koneru Humpy: Still a Force to Reckon With
While this time she finished runner-up, Koneru Humpy’s performance throughout the championship was nothing short of brilliant. The 37-year-old’s experience and tenacity were on full display, and her journey remains a beacon for young players across the nation.
Humpy was the second Indian woman, after GM Subbaraman Vijayalakshmi, to break into the world’s top rankings. Her leadership in women’s chess continues to inspire millions.
India: A Chess Powerhouse in the Making
With players like R Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin, Gukesh D, and now Divya Deshmukh making international headlines, India is no longer just a cricketing nation. Chess is becoming a major sporting identity, and initiatives like the “Smart India Chess” program and school-level tournaments are boosting grassroots development.
Former World Champion Viswanathan Anand has also been a strong influence behind the country’s new generation of grandmasters. India now hosts several major FIDE tournaments, and the popularity of chess is growing rapidly across all age groups.
Government Support for Chess Development
Under the Khelo India initiative and with support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, India has steadily improved its infrastructure for chess. The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has increased funding, mentoring, and global exposure for budding players.
Divya’s victory could trigger more investment and interest in the game at school and college levels, especially among young girls.
What This Win Means for the Nation
Divya’s achievement is symbolic in many ways. It shows that with the right support, Indian talent can excel globally. It also challenges gender stereotypes in sports, paving the way for more women to dream big and break barriers.
Her win will likely inspire a fresh wave of enrollment in chess academies, and demand for structured training programs is expected to rise.
Voices From the Chess Community
Viswanathan Anand, India’s chess icon, called the final “an epic moment in Indian chess history.”
Many international chess federations, including FIDE, congratulated both players and praised India for its extraordinary growth in the sport.
Final Thoughts
Divya Deshmukh’s victory is more than a personal milestone. It’s a national celebration of talent, discipline, and dedication. The chessboard has become India’s new battlefield for glory — and the country is winning.
As the Prime Minister rightly said, this historic feat will inspire thousands of youngsters to take up chess and aim high. The future of Indian chess is not just promising — it’s already shining.