Divya Deshmukh Makes History, Reaches FIDE Women's World Chess Cup Final
Indian International Master Divya Deshmukh has created history by storming into the final of the FIDE Women's World Chess Cup in Batumi. She defeated former world champion Zhongyi Tan of China in a tense semifinal match. With this victory, Deshmukh not only secures a place in the final but also becomes the first Indian woman to qualify for the prestigious Candidates' tournament, which determines the challenger for the women's world championship title. Her remarkable run includes victories over several higher-seeded players.
Unpacked:
The Candidates' tournament is a major event that determines who will challenge the reigning World Chess Champion. Qualifying for it places a player among the world’s elite, giving them a direct path to compete for the world championship title. For women, this is the highest level of competition outside of the world championship match itself.
Divya Deshmukh began playing chess at age five, winning her first national title at seven. She became India's 21st Woman Grandmaster in 2021, has won national and Asian championships, and was a key member of India's gold medal-winning Olympiad teams. Her steady progression includes victories over top-ranked players and recent international tournament wins.
It is quite rare. Before Divya Deshmukh, no Indian woman had ever qualified for the Candidates' tournament. While players like Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli have achieved significant international success, qualifying for the Candidates marks a new milestone for Indian women in chess.
Divya Deshmukh defeated several higher-ranked and more experienced players, including former world champion Zhongyi Tan. She has also previously beaten top Indian players like Harika Dronavalli and Koneru Humpy. These victories underscore her ability to compete with and surpass established world-class opponents.