Divya Deshmukh made history by winning the 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup in Batumi, Georgia, but it wasn’t just the win that made history. She also earned the GM title with this win, but did you know she didn’t have every requirement necessary by FIDE for becoming a Grandmaster? Yes, you read that correctly. So, how did she become a GM without the qualifications? The answer is simple, with a twist of rules that worked in her favour.
How Does One Usually Become A Grandmaster
First, let’s break down the usual route to becoming a Grandmaster. Typically, a player has to earn three GM norms by performing exceptionally in official, FIDE-rated tournaments, and also cross a FIDE rating of 2500 at some point in their career. Norms are like checkpoints proving you can beat top-level competition consistently. And a rating of 2500? That’s no small feat; it puts you in the elite chess club worldwide.
But here’s the catch: Divya came into the 2025 Women’s World Cup without any GM norms, and her rating was below 2500. By normal chess standards, she hadn’t officially qualified for the GM title yet. So, how did she get it? Let’s see.
How Did Divya Deshmukh Become A Grandmaster
The answer lies in winning the FIDE Women’s World Cup itself. FIDE also has a provision that the winner of this prestigious event, among some others, is automatically awarded the GM title, no need to scramble for norms or hit that magic rating number first. This rule rewards exceptional achievement in a high-stakes tournament and puts the spotlight on breakthrough players who can handle intense pressure.
Divya’s journey to this moment was nothing short of spectacular. She faced chess legends like GM Koneru Humpy, a former rapid world champion and one of India’s best players, and the odds were against her. After two tense classical games that ended in draws, the match went into rapid tiebreaks, where Divya capitalized on a rare mistake by Humpy in the decisive second rapid game to clinch victory.
Divya Deshmukh didn’t just become a Grandmaster; she redefined what it means to rise to the top, on her own terms. So, next time you think about how chess players earn the coveted GM crown, remember Divya. Sometimes, it’s about seizing the moment, not just ticking boxes.
Also Read: Meet The Only 4 Indian Women Grandmasters In History
