Koneru Humpy, one of the most iconic figures in Indian chess, has long stood as a symbol of excellence and resilience in the sport. Although she recently lost to 19-year-old Divya Deshmukh in the tiebreaks of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, Humpy’s stature in the chess world remains monumental. Her decades-long career has paved the way for a new generation of Indian chess talent of which Divya is a shining product.
Born in 1987 in Andhra Pradesh, Humpy was a chess prodigy from a very young age. She became the youngest woman ever to earn the Grandmaster title in 2002 at the age of 15, breaking the record previously held by Judit Polgar. That record made her a global sensation and firmly established her as one of India’s brightest sporting stars.
Humpy has represented India in multiple Olympiads and World Championships and has consistently ranked among the world’s top female players. One of her most significant career achievements came in 2019 and 2024 when she won the Women’s World Rapid Chess Championship, making a sensational comeback after a break from professional chess due to motherhood.
Over the years, she has earned a reputation for her rock-solid playing style, deep opening preparation, and unflappable temperament under pressure. Her matches are marked by strategic depth and an ability to hold her own against the best players in the world.
Koneru Humpy's 2025 FIDE Women's World Cup journey
In the 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup, Humpy once again demonstrated her class by reaching the finals, where she faced fellow Indian and rising star Divya Deshmukh. The clash of generations was a significant moment in Indian chess history.
After two classical games ended in draws, the match went to rapid tiebreaks. While the first rapid game was drawn, Divya seized the advantage in the second, winning with the Black pieces to clinch the title. With that, Divya not only became the first Indian to win the FIDE Women’s World Cup but also earned a spot in the Candidates Tournament and achieved the Grandmaster title.
Despite the loss, Humpy’s role in this historic moment cannot be overstated. She laid the groundwork for the rise of players like Divya and has been a consistent inspiration for young talents across India. Her legacy is one of breaking barriers, setting benchmarks, and being a quiet force that changed the face of Indian chess forever.
