Quarterfinal Tension Rises: Humpy Triumphs, Harika, Divya, and Vaishali Hold Ground

India’s top seed, GM Koneru Humpy, made a commanding start in the quarterfinals of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, defeating China’s IM Yuxin Song in the first game. With this win, Humpy now needs just a draw in Game 2 to book her place in the semifinals.

In an all-Indian clash, IM Divya Deshmukh and GM Dronavalli Harika settled for a solid draw after a balanced battle, ensuring the tie remains wide open heading into the second game.

Meanwhile, GM R Vaishali held former Women’s World Champion GM Tan Zhongyi (CHN) to a tense draw, showcasing composure under pressure in a closely contested encounter.

With the top three finishers earning a coveted spot in the next FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament, the pressure is intensifying as the players prepare for the decisive second leg of the quarterfinals.