Checkmate to the Queen: Divya Deshmukh Dethrones World No.1 Hou Yifan in Blitz Showdown

A 74-Move Masterclass: Divya Deshmukh Defining Moment

On June 16, 2025, the chessboard in London bore witness to a seismic shift. In the second leg of the Blitz semifinals at the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships, India’s Divya Deshmukh outmaneuvered World No.1 Hou Yifan in a gripping 74-move battle. Representing Hexamind Chess Club, Divya’s victory was not just a personal triumph, it was a moment of national pride.

The game unfolded with surgical precision. In a tense rook vs bishop endgame, Hou Yifan blundered her bishop, and Divya capitalized with calm, calculated moves. The win was pivotal in helping her team secure a 3.5 – 2.5 victory, eventually leading to a bronze medal finish in the Blitz segment.

Divya’s performance throughout the tournament was nothing short of elite. She scored six wins, one draw, and only one loss, clocking a performance rating of 2606, a number that places her firmly among the world’s best in the blitz format.

From Nagpur to the World Stage: The Rise of a Prodigy

Born in Nagpur to doctor parents, Divya Deshmukh has been a chess prodigy since childhood. She won her first national title at age seven and has since collected accolades across the globe, including World Youth titles, Asian Championships, and Olympiad golds. Trained under GM R.B. Ramesh at Chess Gurukul, Divya holds the titles of Woman Grandmaster (WGM) and International Master (IM).

Her journey, however, hasn’t been without challenges. In 2024, Divya spoke out against gender bias in chess, highlighting how women players are often judged more for their appearance than their gameplay. Her candid reflections sparked a broader conversation about equality in the sport.

Now, with this landmark win over Hou Yifan, arguably the greatest female chess player of the modern era Divya has silenced critics and inspired a new wave of young Indian players, especially girls, to dream bigger.

Applause from the Nation: A Moment of Inspiration

The magnitude of Divya’s victory was recognized at the highest levels. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to congratulate her, writing:

“Congratulations to Divya Deshmukh on defeating the World No. 1, Hou Yifan in the 2nd leg of Blitz semifinal at the World Team Blitz Championships, London. Her success highlights her grit and determination. It also inspires many upcoming chess players. Best wishes for her future endeavours.”

Divya responded with humility and gratitude, calling the recognition “an honour and encouragement.”

Her team’s overall performance was equally commendable. India clinched silver in the Rapid format and bronze in Blitz, with Divya contributing significantly in both. In the Rapid segment, she scored five wins, six draws, and just one loss, earning an individual bronze on Board 6 with a performance rating of 2420.

As the curtains closed on the championship in London, one thing was clear: Divya Deshmukh is no longer just a rising star she’s a force to be reckoned with.

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