Divya Deshmukh broke down in tears and embraced her mother after clinching the 2025 FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup title on Monday, moments after the 19-year-old became the youngest woman ever to win the prestigious title.

What made the win even more special was the dramatic fashion in which it unfolded. Facing off against compatriot and seasoned chess legend Koneru Humpy, the final match was a battle of nerves and resilience. The classical portion of the match ended in a deadlock, leading to a nail-biting tie-break. The first rapid game saw a balanced draw, and the second appeared to be heading toward a similar outcome, until pressure mounted.

19-year-old Divya Deshmukh is in tears after winning the 2025 FIDE Women's World Cup! pic.twitter.com/DuFYH0bqT5

— chess24 (@chess24com) July 28, 2025

Under the immense weight of the clock, the 38-year-old Humpy, herself a former World Rapid Champion and one of India’s greatest ever players, succumbed to time trouble. Sensing her moment, Divya seized the opportunity with composure and precision, capitalising on her opponent’s slip to secure a stunning win.