In a landmark achievement, India’s Grandmaster Koneru Humpy stormed into the semifinals of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 — a first for any Indian woman. Her dominant performance over China’s Song Yuxin has also secured her place in the Women’s Candidates Tournament, inching closer to a shot at the World Championship.
By PC Bureau
New Delhi, July 21 – In a historic achievement for Indian chess, Grandmaster Koneru Humpy has secured her place in the semifinals of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, becoming the first Indian woman to do so in the prestigious knockout event.
The 38-year-old ace from Andhra Pradesh defeated China’s Song Yuxin 1.5–0.5 in the quarterfinal clash held in Batumi, Georgia. Humpy won the first classical game with white pieces through bold middlegame play and strategic precision. She then held her ground in the second game with black pieces, forcing a draw in 53 moves to clinch the match.
Her victory not only marks a personal milestone but also guarantees her a coveted spot in the 2025 Women’s Candidates Tournament — the final qualifier for the World Championship match.
“It’s a very special moment for me. The World Cup is one of the most intense events, and reaching the semifinals is a dream come true,” Humpy said after the match.
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This year’s Women’s World Cup has been a landmark tournament for India. Humpy is one of four Indian players who reached the quarterfinal stage, alongside Harika Dronavalli, Divya Deshmukh, and R Vaishali — a first in the tournament’s history. With Harika and Divya locked in a tense battle of their own, India is guaranteed at least two semifinalists.
Koneru Humpy entered FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 semi finals.
Vaishali Rameshbabu lost in quarter final.
Divya Deshmukh & Harika Dronavalli will play in play offs tomorrow to confirm semi final spot.
India vs China confirmed in both semi finals.#Chess #FIDEWorldCup #KoneruHumpy pic.twitter.com/OJRwCn6UmA— बातम्या खेळांच्या (@Surendra21286) July 20, 2025
In the semifinals, Humpy will face China’s Lei Tingjie, a top-seeded and formidable opponent. The match is expected to draw considerable attention, with both players vying not just for a spot in the finals but also for momentum heading into the Candidates Tournament.
A trailblazer in Indian chess, Koneru Humpy has previously held the title of Women’s Rapid World Champion and has consistently been among the world’s top-ranked players. Her latest feat is a testament to her enduring skill and unyielding spirit.
Chess Federation of India President Sanjay Kapoor hailed Humpy’s performance.
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“Humpy has always been a symbol of excellence. Her journey to the semifinal reflects her class and composure under pressure. This is a proud day for Indian chess.”
With her qualification, Humpy joins an elite group of players in contention for the world title and strengthens India’s growing dominance in global women’s chess.
Key Highlights:
Match Result: Humpy def. Song Yuxin 1.5–0.5
Achievement: First Indian woman to reach World Cup semifinals
Next Opponent: Lei Tingjie (China)
Candidates Qualification: Confirmed
Other Indians in Quarters: Harika, Divya, Vaishali
