Divya Deshmukh Shocks the Chess World with Victory Over Hou Yifan
Historic Win for India's Chess Prodigy
New Delhi: On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised young chess star Divya Deshmukh for her remarkable victory against World No. 1 Hou Yifan during the second leg of the blitz semifinal at the World Team Blitz Championships held in London.
The 18-year-old, representing Hexamind Chess Club, faced off against the formidable Chinese player from the WR Chess Team. In an intense match lasting 74 moves, Divya managed to outmaneuver Yifan, who made a critical mistake by losing her bishop in a drawn endgame scenario.
PM Modi took to X to express his congratulations: "Kudos to Divya Deshmukh for her victory over World No. 1, Hou Yifan, in the Blitz semifinal at the World Team Blitz Championships in London. Her achievement showcases her determination and serves as an inspiration for aspiring chess players. Wishing her all the best in her future endeavors."
Throughout the blitz format, Divya achieved six wins, one draw, and only one loss across eight games, earning an impressive performance rating of 2606. She later excelled in the third-place playoff, leading her team to a 3.5–2.5 victory against Uzbekistan in both rounds, securing the team bronze medal.
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also commended Divya for her extraordinary win over the world champion, stating, "Heartfelt congratulations to our chess star Divya Deshmukh on her stunning victory over world No. 1 Hou Yifan in the Blitz semifinal at the World Team Blitz Championships in London. Best wishes for your upcoming games," he shared on X.
In the rapid format, Divya recorded five wins, six draws, and just one loss, earning a team silver and an individual bronze on Board 6, with a performance rating of 2420.
The third edition of the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships took place in London from June 10 to 16, featuring a total prize fund of 500,000 euros, with 310,000 euros allocated for the rapid tournament and 190,000 euros for the blitz.