India’s Queens of Chess Face Off in Historic World Cup Final

The 2025 FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup has culminated in a landmark all-Indian final between Grandmaster Koneru Humpy and rising star Divya Deshmukh, set to begin July 26 in Batumi, Georgia. This marks the first time two Indian women have reached the final, guaranteeing the country its maiden title in the tournament.

Final Format and Schedule

- Two classical games will be played on July 26 and 27 at 4:30 PM IST  
- If scores are tied, rapid and blitz tie-breaks will be held on July 28  
- Time control: 90 minutes for 40 moves, then 30 minutes for the rest, with a 30-second increment from move one  

Player Profiles and Journey

- Humpy, 38, World No. 5, is a former World Rapid Champion and one of India’s most decorated players  
- She defeated China’s Lei Tingjie in a dramatic 5-3 tie-break after a 3-3 deadlock  
- Deshmukh, 19, World No. 18, stunned former World Champion Tan Zhongyi 1.5-0.5 in the semifinals  
- Both players have qualified for the 2026 Candidates Tournament  

Prize Money and Stakes

- Winner will receive USD 50,000 (approx. Rs 41.6 lakh)  
- Runner-up earns USD 35,000 (approx. Rs 29.1 lakh)  
- The match will be live-streamed on FIDE’s YouTube channel  

Outlook

This generational clash pits Humpy’s strategic depth against Deshmukh’s fearless aggression. Regardless of the outcome, Indian chess will emerge triumphant, with both players rewriting history and inspiring a new wave of talent.

Sources: Sportstar, Outlook India, Times of India, ESPN India, MyKhel, MSN India.