Queen’s Gambit Realized: Koneru Humpy Becomes First Indian Woman in Chess World Cup Semis

Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy has etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian woman to reach the semifinals of the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup, held in Batumi, Georgia. Her strategic brilliance and calm under pressure have earned her a place among the final four contenders in this prestigious knockout tournament.

 

Key highlights from her quarterfinal triumph:

 

- Humpy defeated China’s Song Yuxin 1.5–0.5, winning the first game and drawing the second to seal her spot.

 

- She showcased a counterattacking masterclass, sacrificing pawns for positional advantage and neutralizing Song’s threats.

 

- The draw came after 53 moves in a rook-and-pawn endgame, with Humpy maintaining control throughout.

 

Implications and next steps:

 

- Humpy will face top seed Lei Tingjie of China in the semifinals, a clash of titans with World 

 

Championship implications.

 

- The top three finishers in the World Cup qualify for the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026.

 

- With Harika Dronavalli and Divya Deshmukh also battling in a tiebreak, India is guaranteed at least one more semifinalist.

 

Historical context:

 

- Humpy’s achievement comes in a tournament known for its unforgiving format and elite competition.

 

- Her run ensures India’s continued presence in the World Championship cycle, a testament to the country’s rising chess stature.

 

This milestone is not just a personal victory—it’s a moment of national pride and a beacon for future generations of Indian chess aspirants.

 

Sources: Indian Express, Firstpost, Times Now, Daily Excelsior, FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025.