As the final pawns settled and the last kings were cornered, the curtain fell on the FIDE Women`s World Cup 2025, culminating in a grand closing ceremony in Batumi, Georgia. This wasn`t just an awards presentation; it was a jubilant celebration of intellect, resilience, and the undeniable charm of a sport where every move tells a story.
A Georgian Welcome: Setting the Scene
The Grand Bellagio Hotel and Casino, usually a venue for high stakes of a different kind, transformed into a stage fit for chess royalty. The evening commenced with the stirring notes of the Georgian National Anthem, a proud overture to the night`s proceedings. Distinguished guests, including FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and Akaki Iashvili, President of the Georgian Chess Federation, were welcomed to an atmosphere charged with anticipation and reflection.
Reflections on a Tournament Well Played
Akaki Iashvili was the first to address the assembly, his words a blend of congratulation and profound gratitude. He lauded the victors and extended heartfelt thanks to the countless individuals whose efforts, often unseen, ensure such colossal events run with the precision of a well-executed endgame. Iashvili`s remarks underscored a significant trend: the remarkable dominance displayed by Indian and Chinese players throughout the tournament, a testament to their national chess programs. He emphasized the World Cup`s esteemed place as one of the longest-running and most prestigious events in the FIDE calendar, noting with a smile, perhaps, the serendipitous timing that saw its closing coincide with International Chess Day on July 20th. Indeed, this edition was hailed as one of the most viewed in history – a quiet triumph for the sport`s global reach.
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich followed, offering his own thoughtful reflections. He lauded the Georgian hosts for creating an environment where players could, quite literally, “show their best effort.” Dvorkovich recalled his visit to the first round, three weeks prior, reminiscing about the deceptively relaxed start that quickly gave way to intense competition. He acknowledged the unseen emotional journey of every participant, particularly those who had already departed, taking with them not just memories, but the quiet pride of representing their nations. His message was clear, delivered with warmth:
“To all the winners—congratulations. And to the people of Georgia: thank you for your warmth and hospitality. We look forward to coming back again.”
A Symphony of Success: Music and Moments
The evening transitioned from speeches to a moving musical interlude. Rusa Tavartkiladze and Nona Diasamidze, two celebrated Georgian voices, captivated the audience with a beloved Georgian song, an unofficial anthem of Batumi itself. It was a moment of cultural immersion, reminding everyone of the unique locale that had hosted this global gathering.
Before the culmination of the prize distribution, attendees were treated to a video exhibition – a carefully curated montage of the tournament`s most memorable moments. From decisive victories that shattered nerves to tearful interviews revealing raw emotion, from unforeseen upsets that rewrite narratives to quiet instances of pure sportsmanship, the video encapsulated the human drama behind the intellectual battles. It served as a powerful reminder that while chess is a game of logic, its pursuit is deeply emotional.
The Crowning of Champions
Chief Arbiter Mahdi Abdulrahim delivered a brief address of appreciation before inviting a distinguished panel of dignitaries to the stage: Arkady Dvorkovich (FIDE President), Akaki Iashvili (President, Georgian Chess Federation), Lukasz Turlej (FIDE Secretary General), Smbat Lputian (Vice President, Armenia Chess Federation; Appeals Committee), and Zurab Azmaiparashvili (Continental President for Europe). Their presence underscored the global significance of the event.
The moment everyone had been waiting for arrived: the awarding of the top prizes. The names echoed through the hall, a testament to months of rigorous training and intense competition:
- 4th Place: Lei Tingjie (China)
- 3rd Place: Tan Zhongyi (China)
- 2nd Place: Humpy Koneru (India)
- 1st Place: Divya Deshmukh (India)
The cheers for the Indian contingent were particularly resonant, marking a significant milestone for Indian chess. Divya Deshmukh, the newly crowned champion, stood as a beacon of emerging talent, her victory a symbol of dedication and strategic brilliance.
A Resounding Close
The gala concluded with the solemn strains of the FIDE Anthem, a melody that binds the global chess community. This was immediately followed by the National Anthem of India, played in honor of Divya Deshmukh. It was a poignant and fitting end to a tournament that showcased the very best of women`s chess, leaving an indelible mark on Batumi and the hearts of chess enthusiasts worldwide. The memory of the 2025 FIDE Women`s World Cup in Georgia will undoubtedly inspire future generations to strive for their own royal send-offs.
