Koneru Humpy On Loss To Divya Deshmukh In Chess World Cup: ‘I Lacked Energy In The End’
Veteran Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy attributed her defeat in the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup Final against rising star Divya Deshmukh to a “lack of energy” in the decisive stages.
Divya created history in Georgia by becoming the first Indian champion of the tournament. She defeated Humpy with a scoreline of 2.5–1.5, sealing the title after a tense tie-break. While the first Rapid game ended in a draw, Divya stunned with the Black pieces in the second, clinching victory and earning her Grandmaster title.
Speaking to Firstpost, Humpy admitted:
“I didn’t show my energy levels. Divya played a solid classical game, I couldn’t get much out of that. In the tie-break, the first game was a chance to take the initiative, but I missed it. Later, when it was equal, I started taking the pressure and went with the wrong choices. Towards the end, it was the lack of energy. Divya utilised the opportunity.”
The all-India final drew massive global attention, with thousands tuning in online to witness the rare spectacle.
Reflecting on the achievement, Humpy said:
“Having two Indians in the final of a knockout format was something unexpected. Earlier, we even had four Indians in the quarterfinals. That itself is a remarkable achievement. Indian chess is in a great position, thanks to the support of officials.”
She also stressed that India is fast emerging as a chess powerhouse:
“Yes, definitely. Even in the men’s circuit, our top players are among the best in the world rankings. That clearly shows that India is leading.
