Indian chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh, 19, stunned World No. 1 Hou Yifan in a gripping 74-move blitz semifinal at the 2025 FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championship in London. Her victory was pivotal in helping India secure third place in the Blitz category and second place in the Rapid format.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded her grit and determination, calling her an inspiration for aspiring chess players nationwide. Despite losing the first leg to Hou Yifan, Divya’s comeback in the second leg showcased her exceptional skill and composure, marking a significant milestone in her rising international career and highlighting India’s growing prominence in global chess.
A Tactical Masterclass by India’s Rising Star
Representing India’s Hexamind Chess Club, Divya faced China’s WR Chess Team captain Hou Yifan in a match that captivated the chess world. After a tough first leg loss, Divya leveraged the advantage of playing with white pieces to dictate the pace in the second leg. The 74-move endgame, featuring a tense rook versus bishop battle, tested both players’ strategic depth and time management, crucial in blitz chess where each move counts against the clock.
Divya’s victory not only stunned the chess community but also played a crucial role in India’s podium finishes in both Blitz and Rapid formats. Reflecting on her experience, Divya expressed gratitude for her teammates’ encouragement and the overwhelming support from the nation. Prime Minister Modi praised her determination, stating her success “inspires many upcoming chess players.”
Background and India’s Chess Renaissance
Born in Nagpur in 2005, Divya began playing chess at age five and quickly rose through the ranks, earning the Woman Grandmaster title in 2021 and International Master status in 2023. Currently ranked World Junior No. 1, she dominated the 2024 World Junior Girls’ U-20 Championship with a commanding 10/11 score.
Her recent victory adds to India’s burgeoning chess success, alongside stars like reigning World Champion D. Gukesh and R. Praggnanandhaa. India’s chess scene is witnessing a renaissance, with young talents making significant impacts on the global stage, signalling a new era of excellence for the country.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Divya Deshmukh’s triumph over the world’s top-ranked player is more than a sporting achievement, it is a beacon of inspiration for young women and aspiring players across India. Her success highlights the power of perseverance, strategic thinking, and calm under pressure, qualities that resonate beyond chess and into life’s broader challenges.
At The Logical Indian, we celebrate this moment as a testament to India’s evolving sports culture, where talent and determination break barriers and rewrite narratives.
