New Delhi: Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya today felicitated FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 medalists Divya Deshmukh and Koneru Humpy, hailing their performance as a testament to India’s growing sporting prowess.
First-Ever Women’s World Cup Title for India
The recently concluded tournament in Batumi, Georgia, witnessed a historic all-Indian final between 19-year-old prodigy Divya Deshmukh and veteran Grandmaster Koneru Humpy. This marked the first time in history that two Indian women reached the final of the prestigious event.
Divya, hailing from Nagpur, created history by becoming the first Indian woman to win the FIDE Women’s World Cup and the youngest ever to do so. She also became the 88th Grandmaster of India and only the fourth Indian woman to earn the GM title. In the tense final, Divya defeated Humpy in tiebreaks after two drawn classical games, defeating top players such as Zhu Jiner, Harika Dronavalli, and Tan Zhongyi along the way.
Mandaviya: ‘Grandmasters Like You Will Inspire Generations’
Addressing the players, Dr. Mandaviya said,
“Grandmasters like you will serve as inspiration for the new generation. Chess may be considered one of India’s gifts to the world, and I firmly believe that many daughters of India will rise in the world by drawing inspiration from both of you.”
He praised Humpy for her long and distinguished career, recalling how he and his children watched her games. “
India’s victory in the Women’s Chess World Cup is not only a testament to the sporting prowess of Bharat, but also highlights the sports ecosystem that Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji has established in the country,” he added.
Players Reflect on a Historic Moment
Divya expressed pride in bringing the title to India, saying,
“No matter who won, the title was going to India. Being felicitated by the Hon’ble Minister motivates athletes and shows that the country stands behind them.”
She also thanked the Sports Authority of India and the Sports Ministry for their support.
Koneru Humpy, who became a Grandmaster in 2002 at just 15 years old, said,
“India dominated the finals with chess players from two generations facing each other. It was a long and exhaustive tournament, but the title came home.”
Government Push for Sports Development
Dr. Mandaviya also underlined the government’s commitment to sports, citing initiatives like the recently announced Khelo Bharat Niti and the upcoming National Sports Governance Bill aimed at ensuring good governance and sustained growth in sports. He expressed optimism ahead of India hosting the FIDE Men’s World Cup 2025 in Goa this October.
