India’s Pride Divya Deshmukh Receives Hero’s Welcome at Mumbai Airport After Historic Chess World Cup Win

Mumbai, July 30: Mumbai International Airport witnessed scenes of joy and national pride on Wednesday as India’s chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh returned home after clinching the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 title. At just 19 years old, Divya has etched her name in history as the first Indian woman to win the prestigious World Cup, marking a monumental moment in Indian sports.

Airport staff, officials, and enthusiastic supporters gathered at the arrival terminal to celebrate her triumphant return. Amid cheers, flowers, and applause, the young Grandmaster was welcomed like a true champion. In a heartfelt statement, Mumbai International Airport expressed its admiration, saying, “We are honoured to welcome home Ms. Divya Deshmukh. Her victory is not just a personal milestone but a national achievement. Her return is a proud moment for us all.”

Divya’s success does not stop at the World Cup crown. She has also earned the Grandmaster (GM) title, becoming India’s 88th GM and only the fourth Indian woman to reach this elite chess status. Her dual achievements serve as a significant leap forward not just for Indian chess, but also for women in Indian sports.

Her journey—from a promising national player to a world champion—has captured the imagination of fans and players alike. Throughout the tournament, Divya demonstrated unmatched focus, strategic brilliance, and mental strength, earning praise from across the international chess community.

With India rising steadily on the global chess map, Divya’s win reinforces the country’s growing dominance and deep talent pool in the sport. More importantly, her triumph is seen as a beacon of hope and motivation for young girls across India to dream big and pursue excellence in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Divya’s homecoming has become a symbolic beginning of a new chapter in Indian chess—one that promises a brighter and more inclusive future for the game.