Norway Chess: India’s Divya Deshmukh Defeats Women’s World Champion Ju Wenjun

Indian chess player Divya Deshmukh created a major upset at the prestigious Norway Chess tournament by defeating women’s world champion Ju Wenjun of China.

The Norway Chess tournament is regarded as one of the most prestigious events in the chess world and is often referred to as the “Wimbledon of Chess.” The 2026 edition of the tournament began on May 25 and will continue until June 10.

A total of 12 players are participating in the tournament, including six players each in the men’s and women’s categories. India is represented by four players — Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, Koneru Humpy, and Divya Deshmukh.

Divya’s Stunning Victory

Twenty-year-old Divya Deshmukh, who is participating in the Norway Chess tournament for the first time, had drawn her opening match against China’s reigning women’s world champion Ju Wenjun.

However, in their second encounter today, Divya shocked the chess world by defeating Ju Wenjun in an impressive performance.

This victory marks Divya Deshmukh’s first-ever win in the Norway Chess tournament. The triumph is being widely appreciated because she managed to secure the win while playing with the black pieces under pressure.

Strong Performances by Indian Players

In the men’s section, Indian stars R Praggnanandhaa and reigning world champion Gukesh also delivered impressive performances.

After drawing their previous matches against American player Wesley So and German grandmaster Vincent Keymer respectively, both Indian players bounced back with victories today and moved into the leading positions.

Meanwhile, Indian veteran Koneru Humpy suffered a defeat in her opening match against Kazakhstan’s Bibisara Assaubayeva.

Magnus Carlsen Suffers Shock Defeat

In another major surprise from the tournament, legendary Norwegian grandmaster Magnus Carlsen lost to Iranian-French chess player Alireza Firouzja in a dramatic encounter held yesterday.

While the Norway Chess tournament has already witnessed several thrilling battles and unexpected results, Divya Deshmukh’s victory over the reigning world champion has become one of the biggest talking points of the event so far.

Chess fans are now eagerly waiting to see how the young Indian star performs in the upcoming rounds.