Mumbai: Mumbai International Airport on Wednesday rolled out a warm welcome for Divya Deshmukh, the newly crowned FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 Champion, marking a historic moment for Indian chess. At just 19, Divya has become the first Indian woman to win the prestigious title, etching her name into the annals of sports history.
Her arrival was met with immense pride and celebration, as airport authorities and staff gathered to honour her groundbreaking achievement on the global chess stage. Mumbai International Airport described the moment as a privilege and a full-circle celebration of Indian excellence.
Along with clinching the World Cup, Divya has also been conferred with the Grandmaster (GM) title, becoming India’s 88th Grandmaster and only the fourth Indian woman to achieve this elite status. Her dual triumph stands as a milestone not just for Indian chess, but for women in sport across the country.
Divya’s win underscores India’s growing dominance in the international chess arena and serves as an inspiration to aspiring players nationwide. Her focus, resilience and strategic brilliance throughout the tournament have drawn widespread admiration from across the sporting community.
Mumbai International Airport, in a statement, said, “We are honoured to welcome home Ms. Divya Deshmukh. Her victory is not just a personal milestone but a national achievement. Her return is a proud moment for us all.”
Divya’s journey from national prodigy to global champion continues to inspire a generation, and her homecoming marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s chess legacy.
