'I just need some sleep and food': Divya Deshmukh’s first reaction after making history at FIDE World Cup

Divya Deshmukh made history on Wednesday by becoming the first Indian to reach the final of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025. The 19-year-old International Master defeated China’s Tan Zhongyi 1.5-0.5 in the semifinals to secure her place in the summit clash.

With this achievement, Divya has also qualified for next year’s prestigious Women’s Candidates Tournament.

Divya’s reaction after historic win

After the intense match, Divya was almost at a loss for words. “Thank you so much for all your love and support. I don’t really have much to say. My thoughts are not clear right now,” she said.

“I need some sleep. These days have been so anxious. I just need some sleep and some food,” she added with a smile, looking exhausted after a gruelling victory.

Right after her win, 🇮🇳 Divya Deshmukh thanks her fans — and says all she needs now is “some sleep… and some food.” 😄#FIDEWorldCup @DivyaDeshmukh05 pic.twitter.com/62ceK9lZ2n

— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) July 23, 2025

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The Indian youngster sealed her place in the final after winning with white pieces in Game 2 of the semifinal clash. The first game had ended in a draw where Divya played with black pieces.

Divya’s journey to the final has been nothing short of spectacular. She first shocked China’s Zhu Jiner with a 2.5-1.5 win in the fourth round. She then defeated Indian Grandmaster Harika Dronavalli in the quarterfinals, winning 3-1 after back-to-back draws in the classical games.

There is still a chance for an all-Indian final. Grandmaster Koneru Humpy is facing China’s top seed Lei Tingjie in the other semifinal. The two have drawn both their classical games and will now play tie-breaks on Thursday to decide the second finalist.

If Humpy wins, it will be a historic moment for Indian chess with two Indians contesting the FIDE Women’s World Cup final. Divya will now get a two-day break before her final game.