Batumi, Georgia : In a dramatic opening clash of the FIDE Women’s World Cup Final, five-time Indian national champion Koneru Humpy showcased immense defensive resilience to escape with a draw against teenage prodigy Divya Deshmukh, who held a dominant position for much of Game 1 but was unable to convert her advantage.
Deshmukh Gains Control Early, But Let Advantage Slip
The 19-year-old International Master came out swinging with the white pieces, springing a surprise in the opening that caught Humpy off guard by move 10. Deshmukh’s aggressive approach peaked with a daring piece sacrifice, pushing Humpy onto the back foot.
Despite immense pressure and an exposed king, the veteran grandmaster dug deep, navigating the complications with remarkable poise. Deshmukh missed a crucial opportunity with 14.Qe2, which could have regained material and kept the initiative. From there, the game transitioned into a tense heavy-piece endgame, where both players managed time pressure with seconds on the clock.
“I knew I was worse and couldn’t even calculate much,” Humpy admitted after the game. “I was just relying on intuition.”
The game eventually ended in a draw after 42 moves, with Humpy successfully neutralizing Deshmukh’s earlier threats.
Lei Tingjie Declines Winning Chances In Third-Place Match
Meanwhile, in the battle for third place, China’s Lei Tingjie outplayed compatriot Tan Zhongyi from the black side of the Queen’s Gambit Exchange. Lei seized the initiative in the middlegame, gaining a clear advantage, but surprisingly agreed to a draw on move 43 despite being better.
The decision may prove costly, as only the top three finishers in the Women’s World Cup qualify for the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament.
Stakes Rise Ahead Of Game 2
With both finals matches tied after the first classical games, all eyes now turn to Game 2 on Sunday, July 27. A decisive result would clinch the match, while a second draw would push the contest into rapid and blitz tiebreaks.
For Humpy, a former World Rapid Champion, experience will be her asset. For Divya, the youngest finalist in tournament history, it’s a chance to redeem her missed opportunity and make a mark in the global chess arena.
FIDE Women’s World Cup Final 2025 – Game 1 Results
Final: Koneru Humpy (IND) ½ – ½ Divya Deshmukh (IND)
Third Place: Lei Tingjie (CHN) ½ – ½ Tan Zhongyi (CHN)
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