Divya Deshmukh defeated Koneru Humpy to win FIDE Women Chess World Cup held in Batumi, Georgia. The teenager won the tense tiebreaks after two classical games ended in draws.
Displaying remarkable composure, the 19 year player seized her opportunity in the second rapid encounter. She was playing with black pieces.
Capitalising on a critical game error by 38 year old Humpy, the teenager steadily increased her advantage. She converted this to clinch the title.
With this victory, Divya secured her Grand Master title. She is now the fourth Indian woman to secure this elite status.
The classical games played over the weekends ended in tense draws. Both players showed their class displaying resilence and high level play .
In Saturday ‘s opening game, Divya playing with white pieces built a commanding position. But Humpy equalised later.
Saving her best for the tiebreaks, Divya capped off a memorable win. The first rapid game ended in a draw.
The second saw Humpy crack under pressure. She made critical blunders which Divya pounced on.
Divya’s victory is all the more remarkable considering the odds. While Humpy is a twotime World Champion, Deshmukh is a underdog.
