Divya Deshmukh Makes History, Becomes First Indian to Reach Women’s World Cup Final

The world No.1 junior girl (U-20) defeated China’s world No.4 and former women’s world champion Tan Zhongyi in a rollercoaster Game 2 to seal her place in the summit clash.

With the win, Deshmukh also secured a coveted spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament — a crucial step toward challenging for the women’s world title — and achieved her first Grandmaster (GM) norm.

In what turned out to be a tense and error-strewn battle, both players experienced dramatic swings in position. After gaining an early advantage and outplaying Tan in the opening phase, Deshmukh faltered mid-game, allowing the Chinese GM back into contention. At one point, Tan missed a winning opportunity with 32...Rg4, and the game shifted again in the Indian’s favor.

As time pressure mounted — under the classical time control of 90 minutes for 40 moves plus 30 minutes thereafter, with a 30-second increment per move — Deshmukh reasserted control. Despite a few nervous moments, a final blunder from Tan on move 90 (Kh3) tipped the scales decisively. Tan eventually resigned after 101 moves, and Deshmukh could finally exhale.

“I think I could have played much better,” she admitted afterward. “It should have been a smoother win, but I messed up in the middle game. I thought it was going to be a draw. I got lucky in the end.”

Final Opponent Yet to Be Decided

India could see an all-Indian final, as Koneru Humpy is still in contention. Humpy, who played to another draw against China’s Lei Tingjie, will battle in the rapid tiebreakers on Thursday. The winner will face Deshmukh in the final.

If Humpy advances, she too will earn a spot in the Candidates. Otherwise, she can still qualify through strong performances at the Women’s Grand Prix Series 2024–25 or the Grand Swiss.

A Star in the Making

Deshmukh’s semifinal victory over Tan was her third consecutive win against a Grandmaster in the tournament, following impressive triumphs over second seed Zhu Jiner (China) and compatriot Harika Dronavalli in the quarterfinals. Her run has been powered by deep preparation and steely nerves.

Already a multiple-time world youth champion — U-10 in 2014 (Durban), U-12 in 2017 (Brazil), and the World Junior Girls’ U-20 champion in 2024 — the Nagpur teenager continues to live up to her immense promise. She also played a key role in India’s team gold at the 45th Chess Olympiad (2024) in Budapest.

With two extra days to prepare for the final, Deshmukh now has a rare opportunity to etch her name in chess history.

But for now, her priorities are refreshingly grounded.

“I need some sleep,” she said with a smile. “These days have been so anxious. I just need some sleep and food.”