The FIDE Women's World Cup 2025 in Batumi, Georgia, has witnessed a historic moment as two Indian chess players, Koneru Humpy and Divya Deshmukh, face off in the final. This all-Indian clash guarantees a maiden World Cup title for India. The first game of the final ended in a 41-move draw, setting the stage for a thrilling Game 2.
The Protagonists: A Generational Clash
Koneru Humpy, a 38-year-old Grandmaster, is a seasoned veteran and the reigning World Rapid Champion. Humpy learned to play chess at the age of five and achieved the Grandmaster title at just 15 years old. She has been a dominant force in the chess world for over two decades. Known for her aggressive and clever play, Humpy has won numerous prestigious titles and competitions, including the Women's World Rapid Chess Championship in 2019. In 2024, she became the World Rapid champion for the second time. Humpy is also the first Indian to reach the FIDE Women's World Cup semifinals. Chess.com notes her well-rounded play, comfort in both positional and tactical situations, and fantastic endgame abilities.
Divya Deshmukh, a 19-year-old International Master, is a rising star and the Junior World Champion. Born on December 9, 2005, Deshmukh comes from a family of doctors and started playing chess at the age of five. She became India's 21st woman Grandmaster in 2021. Deshmukh's recent performance at the World Cup, where she defeated former world champion Zhongyi Tan, has solidified her position as a formidable player. She also secured an individual gold medal at the 45th Chess Olympiad. Deshmukh's rapid rise in competitive chess showcases her immense potential, and her success inspires aspiring players.
Game 1: A Tense Draw
The first game of the final was a tense and intricate battle. Deshmukh, playing with white, opened with 1. d4, a move she hadn't played in the entire tournament, indicating targeted preparation. Humpy responded with the Queen's Gambit Accepted. Deshmukh gained an early advantage, putting Humpy on the defensive. However, Humpy showcased her experience with precise defense, and the game eventually ended in a draw through repetition after 41 moves.
According to GM Abhijeet Kunte, the opening is quite popular when Black wants to play safe, but White has interesting aggressive options. Pravin Thipsay noted that Deshmukh seemed well-prepared in the opening, even offering a pawn sacrifice.
However, Deshmukh missed a key opportunity to capitalize on her advantage. On move 14, instead of capturing on b7, she should have played 14.Qe2!, which would have maintained a crushing advantage. Despite the missed opportunity, the game continued with both players contesting an equal, but tense, heavy-piece endgame.
Looking Ahead to Game 2
With Game 1 ending in a draw, all eyes are now on Game 2. Humpy will have the white pieces and will look to press her experience. Deshmukh, on the other hand, will aim to recover from her missed chances in Game 1 and capitalize on her sharp opening preparation. The winner of the World Cup will not only take home the coveted title but also secure a spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the qualifier to challenge China's Ju Wenjun for the World Championship. Both finalists have already secured spots in the Candidates Tournament.
The FIDE Women's World Cup final promises an exciting contest between two talented Indian chess players. Whether it's Humpy's experience or Deshmukh's youthful exuberance that prevails, the tournament is set to mark a significant moment for Indian chess.
