Divya Deshmukh, a 19-year-old chess player, is making her mark in a sport traditionally dominated by established players. Her achievements include winning the World Cup, earning Olympic gold, and defeating top players. Deshmukh won the Women’s Chess World Cup 2025, which led to her winning the Grandmaster title. She also qualified for the Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026. In 2024, she played a key role in India’s gold medal victory at the 45th Chess Olympiad. Deshmukh also claimed the World U20 Chess Championship in 2024. At the 2025 World Rapid and Blitz Team Chess Championships, she secured a victory over Hou Yifan, the world’s number one female chess player. She also held World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju to a draw after 103 moves at the FIDE Grand Swiss 2025. Deshmukh has already achieved significant accomplishments, and she is known for her determined approach to the game. She represents the increasing strength of women’s chess in India. Her career is expected to be a long and successful one.
