Tag: Divya Deshmukh

Sports

FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 Returns to India After 23 Years, to Be Held in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

The global spotlight returns to India as the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 is set to unfold in the scenic coastal state of Goa, marking a monumental return of the tournament to Indian soil after over two decades. Scheduled from October 31 to November 27, the event will be hosted at the plush Resort Rio in Bardez, Arpora — a venue that blends luxury with Goa’s laid-back coastal charm.

A total of 206 elite players from 82 countries will vie for a share of the impressive $2 million prize fund in a nail-biting knockout format. But the stakes go beyond the prize money — the top three finishers will earn a golden ticket to the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the gateway to the World Chess Championship.

Among the notable contenders are household names in world chess: Gukesh D, Arjun Erigaisi, Praggnanandhaa R, Anish Giri, Ian Nepomniachtchi, Vincent Keymer, Hans Niemann, Wesley So, Richard Rapport, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Vidit Gujrathi, and Nihal Sarin. A special highlight will be 12-year-old Argentinian prodigy Faustino Oro, who is set to become the youngest participant in the tournament’s history.

Indian chess fans have another reason to celebrate with the inclusion of Divya Deshmukh in the Open Section through a wildcard entry, marking a significant step for Indian women in elite chess.

The tournament’s return to India underlines the country’s rapid rise in the global chess hierarchy — not just as a breeding ground for prodigies, but as a serious stage for international events. With recent triumphs from Indian grandmasters and increasing national interest, India is poised to redefine its place on the global chess map.

Adding to the excitement is a culturally immersive logo that blends Goa’s signature symbols — a palm tree swaying over a blue wave, a red checkered chessboard, and a yellow sun radiating warmth — creating a visual identity that is as vibrant as the host state itself.

Further elevating the spirit is the official anthem, sung by iconic Indian artist Daler Mehendi. The song celebrates India not only as a host but as a protagonist in global chess. Through the lens of key players — Tania Sachdev, Gukesh, Humpy Koneru, and Vidit — the anthem embodies the pillars of Indian chess: talent, tradition, intellect, and inspiration.

With the perfect blend of tradition, talent, and tropical beauty, the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 in Goa is set to be more than a tournament — it will be a celebration of chess, culture, and India’s enduring rise on the global stage.

Events in Goa

Goa to Host Historic FIDE World Cup 2025 with 206 Players and $2 Million Prize Pool

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Chess returns to the global spotlight as the FIDE World Cup 2025 heads to Goa, India, from October 30 to November 27. In a high-stakes, eight-round knockout format, 206 of the world’s strongest players will compete for a $2 million prize fund and three coveted spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament.

India’s chess rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Last year, Gukesh Dommaraju stunned the world by becoming World Champion. More recently, Divya Deshmukh captured the Women’s World Cup title, marking a new era in Indian chess. With both the Open and Women’s teams winning gold at the Chess Olympiad, India has firmly established itself as a global powerhouse.

 Goa, known for its serene beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, offers the perfect backdrop for this world-class tournament. For fans, it’s the ideal setting to witness elite chess alongside a rich cultural experience. For players, it’s a unique blend of focus and inspiration.

Tournament Format

  • Dates: October 30 – November 27, 2025
  • Players: 206
  • Format: Eight-round knockout
  • Top 50 seeds start in Round 2
  • Match Structure: Two classical games; if tied, rapid & blitz playoffs
  • Top 3 Finishers: Qualify for the 2026 Candidates Tournament

Leadership Statements

Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE President:

“India has become one of the strongest chess nations. Hosting the World Cup in Goa is a celebration of this growth and the global appeal of chess.”

Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India:

“India is delighted to host the prestigious FIDE World Cup 2025. I am sure this tournament will showcase thrilling matches and the brilliance of top players from around the world.”

Nitin Narang, AICF President:

“This is a proud moment for Indian chess. The World Cup in Goa will inspire millions and reflect India’s stature as a global hub for the game.”

 With more than 90 countries expected to be represented, the FIDE World Cup 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most widely watched and celebrated chess events in history.

Chess fans around the world—mark your calendars. Goa is calling, and the board is set.

Sports

Divya Deshmukh Crowned FIDE Women’s World Cup Champion, Becomes Grandmaster

allycaralgoa

Batumi, Georgia | July 2025 – In a stunning display of strategic brilliance and poise, Divya Deshmukh clinched the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, becoming only the 4th Indian woman to be awarded the Grandmaster title.

Facing off against the seasoned Indian chess icon Humpy Koneru in the finals, Divya’s victory marks a new era in Indian chess — one where youth, determination, and intellect are rewriting the narrative.

At just 18, Divya has already been turning heads in the chess world, but this landmark win in Batumi, Georgia cements her place among India’s greatest. Her rise is also a testament to the growing strength of women in Indian sports, particularly in the highly competitive world of chess.

The FIDE World Cup win is not only a personal triumph but a national celebration, inspiring a new generation of chess enthusiasts across the country.

As messages pour in from sporting icons, political leaders, and fans worldwide, Divya Deshmukh’s moment of glory is a proud chapter in India’s sporting history.

📖 Read the full story on allycaral.com

Sports

Divya Deshmukh Enters Semi-Finals of FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, Joins Koneru Humpy

allycaralgoa

Batumi, Georgia | July 16, 2025: India’s rising chess star International Master Divya Deshmukh has etched her name into the history books by advancing to the semi-finals of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, becoming only the second Indian woman ever to do so.

Joining her in the Final 4 is none other than Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, making it a historic occasion for Indian chess — with two Indian women fighting for a spot in the final on the global stage.

Divya’s journey to the semi-finals has been marked by tactical brilliance, calm under pressure, and a maturity beyond her years. Her performances have captured the attention of the global chess community and renewed India’s dominance in women’s chess.

The 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup, held in Batumi, Georgia, has seen fierce competition among the world’s best, and Divya’s advancement is a testament to India’s growing bench strength in international chess.

In a post-match interaction, Divya expressed her gratitude and excitement, saying, “It’s an honour to represent India at this level. Every game is a new challenge, and I’m thrilled to have made it to the semis.”

With Humpy and Divya both in the semis, India has doubled its chances for gold and reaffirmed its place as a global chess powerhouse.

The chess world now eagerly awaits the semi-final clashes as India watches with pride.

Stay tuned for more updates from FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025.