Divya Deshmukh, the 19-year-old chess prodigy from Nagpur, has made history by winning the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, becoming the youngest Indian woman ever to achieve this feat. But beyond the board, it was her calm demeanor that drew admiration, with fans dubbing her as “the MS Dhoni of Indian chess.”
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A Star Is Born on the Global Stage
After navigating through a fiercely competitive field, Divya defeated India’s Koneru Humpy in the final to claim the championship. Her path to the title was defined by bold sacrifices, quiet confidence, and ice-cold composure — the traits of a true champion. But what captured the public wasn’t just the win; it was how she won. No fist pumps. No tears. No spotlight-chasing. Just a handshake, a faint smile, and a quiet walk away.
The comparison to MS Dhoni, known for his calm leadership and no-celebration style, quickly caught on. Like Dhoni, Deshmukh let her game do the talking, and the world listened.
India’s New Queen of 64 Squares
With this win, Divya Deshmukh has not only elevated India’s standing in global chess but also inspired a new generation of young girls to dream bigger. Her performance is being hailed as one of the most important milestones in Indian women’s chess history and perhaps even the beginning of a new era.
Her win is not just a milestone for Indian chess—it’s an inspiration for millions of girls in India and beyond who dare to dream differently. In her silence, she echoes a powerful message: greatness doesn’t need to shout.
