International Master Divya Deshmukh has created history by becoming the first Indian to enter the FIDE Women's Chess World Cup.

The 19-year-old defeated former World Champion Tan Zhongyi in a marathon second game of the semifinals to win their mini match 1.5-0.5.

Divya had a decisive advantage in the game after the queens were exchanged in the 35th move. But she could not capitalise, and the struggle went for 101 moves when she finally got the Chinese GM to accept defeat.

By entering the final, Divya has also earned a place in the 2026 Candidates Tournament that will decide the challenger to reigning World Champion Ju Wenjun.

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India could secure the World Cup title if GM Koneru Humpy also advances past the semifinals. Humpy's semifinal match with GM Lei Tingjie could not be decided in two games as they both ended in draws. Humpy and Tingjie will play tie-breakers on Thursday to decide Divya's opponent in the final.

If Divya wins the World Cup, she will become the latest Grandmaster from India.

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