Divya Deshmukh Calls Chess World Cup Win 'Test Of Resilience', Hopes 'Vishy Sir Is Happy' | Exclusive

Last Updated:August 06, 2025, 14:25 IST

The 19-year-old from Nagpur opened up on her historic title-winning run in Georgia, which earned her the Grandmaster title in addition to the FIDE Women's World Cup crown.

Divya Deshmukh (X)

Teenage Indian Chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh, who scripted history by becoming the first woman from the nation to clinch the FIDE Women’s World Cup, opened up on the triumph in an EXCLUSIVE with News18.

The 19-year-old from Nagpur, who also earned the title of Grandmaster on the back of her crown in Batumi, expressed that the success hasn’t completely sunk in yet and revealed how the even in Georgia was one of the most nerve-wrecking ones she has participated in.

“I have not had time to sink in the win," said the teenage GM.

“It was by far the most difficult and longest tournament. It was a do or die situation and a test of resilience," she added.

Divya revealed that she was focused on making it to the summit clash throughout the duration of the tournament and once she secured her berth in the championship bout, she had just one objective in mind.

Deshmukh got the better of another compatriot, GM Dronavalli Harika, and Tan Zhongyi of China en route to her final as the teenager demonstrated poise and patience throughout the campaign. Deshmukh got the better of her senior compatiot Koneru Humpy in the title clash to seal the victory and everything that goes with it.

“Until i reached finals, I was trying to just give my best everyday and when I reached finals, my goal was only to win this final," the GM said.

“Playing Against Koneru Humpy – Playing with her was not new for me. She is an incredible player. I was nervous after first round."

Deshmukh was accompanied by her mother, who stood by her ward throught the tournament, much like she has done so for the entiriety of her daughter’s fledgling career, and the wunderkind from Nagpur expressed her gratitude to her mum while also acknowledging her entire family and her coach.

“I thank my mother, coach and my family," Deshmukh added.

News18 Sports brings you the latest updates, live commentary, and highlights from cricket, football, tennis, badmintion, wwe and more. Catch breaking news, live scores, and in-depth coverage. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location :

First Published:

August 06, 2025, 14:24 IST

News sports Divya Deshmukh Calls Chess World Cup Win 'Test Of Resilience', Hopes 'Vishy Sir Is Happy' | Exclusive

Read More