Legends of the New Era: Divya Deshmukh

Divya Deshmukh, a 19-year-old chess grandmaster from Nagpur, has rapidly ascended the international chess scene. In July 2025, she captured global attention by becoming the first Indian woman to win the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup, defeating the seasoned Koneru Humpy in a high-tension tiebreak, earning the GM title (India’s 88th overall and fourth female), and securing qualification for the 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament.

With a peak rating of 2501 and a string of international titles - including successes at the Asian, World Junior, and Youth levels - Divya Deshmukh exemplifies the new wave of Indian chess excellence.

Born on December 9, 2005, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, Divya’s journey into the world of chess began at the tender age of five. Her early interest quickly turned into passion, and she started training under reputed coaches, participating in local tournaments that slowly paved the way for national and international opportunities.

Her breakthrough moment came in 2019 when she won the Asian Youth Chess Championship. Since then, she has been a force to reckon with on the board. In 2022, she became the national women’s champion of India, a major milestone in her career. She also played a vital role in helping the Indian women’s team secure a bronze medal at the 44th Chess Olympiad held in Chennai.

Divya is known for her aggressive opening repertoire and strong tactical awareness, which often catches opponents off guard. She doesn’t shy away from challenging higher-rated players and has secured wins against several Grandmasters. Her fighting spirit and ability to handle pressure stand out, making her a fan favorite in the Indian chess circuit.

More recently, she boldly competed as the only Indian female in the open section of the FIDE Grand Swiss, where she not only showcased a refreshing growth mindset but also delivered a notable victory over Africa’s top player, Bassem Amin.

Divya’s rise is not just a personal success story for the girls but also a symbol of the growing ecosystem for chess in India. As she continues to climb the ladder of success, all eyes are on Divya Deshmukh to carry forward India’s rich chess legacy and inspire the next generation.

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