Divya Deshmukh: What is the connection between chess world champion Divya Deshmukh and Dhoni?Coach's shocking revelation

Divya Deshmukh’s Calm Like Dhoni: Coach Reveals How India’s Young Chess Queen Mirrors the Cricket Legend

In a story blending brilliance, poise, and patriotism, India’s 19-year-old chess sensation Divya Deshmukh has emerged as the 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup Champion, defeating the seasoned grandmaster Koneru Humpy in a tense tiebreaker final held in Batumi, Georgia. But what stunned fans beyond the board was her Dhoni-like temperament, a comparison drawn by her former coach Srinath Narayanan, who revealed fascinating insights into Divya’s mindset and rise to glory.

Calm Under Pressure: The Dhoni Comparison

Speaking to PTI, coach Srinath Narayanan said, “Divya remains incredibly calm under pressure, much like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the final overs. Her ability to thrive in tense moments is what sets her apart.” Srinath, who coached Divya until 2020, believes her mental strength is among her greatest assets — allowing her to make smart decisions even in the toughest positions, just like the legendary cricketer known for his match-finishing abilities.

Divya’s victory wasn’t just another title; it was a statement. At just 19, she became India’s 88th Grandmaster and only the fourth Indian woman to achieve the feat — a milestone earned by defeating one of the greatest Indian chess icons of all time.

Beating a Legend Twice Her Age

Koneru Humpy, 38, is a name synonymous with Indian women’s chess — a former World Rapid Champion, multiple-time Asian Games gold medalist, and an Olympiad gold winner. Facing her in a high-stakes final was no easy task. But Divya rose to the challenge, showing tactical sharpness and mental resilience beyond her years. After drawing the first rapid game, she won the second with black pieces, clinching a 1.5-0.5 victory in the tiebreak and rewriting history.

The Making of a Champion

Srinath first spotted Divya’s talent in 2016 during a World Under-16 Olympiad camp when the team was heading to Turkey. He recalled meeting her at the airport and immediately sensing her potential. Their coaching partnership began in earnest around 2018. “She has always been incredibly gifted,” he said. “There’s something special about the way she handles big games. She once won a crucial game against Iran in the final round of a team event, showing her big-match temperament even then.”

Her journey from a promising youngster to World Cup Champion hasn’t been a fluke. Divya has already won three gold medals at the Chess Olympiad, as well as several titles at the Asian Championship, World Junior Championship, and World Youth events.

From Grit to Glory: A Mental Masterclass

What stood out during the Women’s World Cup wasn’t just her tactical gameplay but her sheer composure. Facing top-tier opponents, she needed more than just skill — it required nerves of steel. Srinath emphasized how her growth into an “all-format” player — Classical, Rapid, and Blitz — was key to her dominance.

“She’s become incredibly versatile,” he said. “There’s maturity in her game now. She has the tools and temperament to go even further.”

PM Modi Congratulates the Young Champion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was quick to acknowledge the historic moment. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: “A historic final between two outstanding Indian chess players. Proud of young Divya Deshmukh on becoming the FIDE Women’s World Chess Champion 2025. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement. It will inspire many young minds.”

He also praised Koneru Humpy for her remarkable skill and contribution throughout the championship, wishing both players success in their future pursuits.

What’s Next for Divya?

Having qualified for the Candidates Tournament, Divya’s next big challenge will be to aim for the Women’s World Championship title. With her current momentum, many believe it’s only a matter of time before she claims that crown too.

Key Highlights:

• Divya Deshmukh becomes India’s 88th Grandmaster and first-ever FIDE Women’s World Cup winner

• Beat Indian chess legend Koneru Humpy in the tiebreaker final

• Coach Srinath Narayanan compares her temperament to MS Dhoni, citing her calmness under pressure

• PM Modi calls it a “historic final” and celebrates her victory on social media

• Divya has already won multiple international medals and is now poised to aim for the World Champion title