The 19-year-old Nagpur-born GM was added to the field following the last-minute withdrawal of a participant, with former women\u2019s world champions Ju Wenjun and Hou Yifan having earlier declined their invitations. The move ensures India\u2019s brightest young talent a place in one of the most prestigious events on the global chess calendar.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Divya, who has made rapid strides in the past two years, most recently tested herself in the open section of the FIDE Grand Swiss 2025, where she secured two victories and six draws across 11 rounds. Though her final score was modest, the event highlighted her fighting spirit against elite opposition.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Her wild card entry adds further intrigue to the Indian challenge at the 11th edition of the World Cup, where a record 21 players from the country will compete. The contingent will be spearheaded by reigning world champion D. Gukesh, who is returning home as the star attraction.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Divya, who has made rapid strides in the past two years, most recently tested herself in the open section of the FIDE Grand Swiss 2025, where she secured two victories and six draws across 11 rounds. Though her final score was modest, the event highlighted her fighting spirit against elite opposition.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
For Divya, the tournament is both a stage and an opportunity. As the current Women\u2019s World Cup holder, she has already underlined her credentials as one of the best of her generation. Competing in Goa, however, she will be measuring herself against the strongest players in the world \u2014 a test that could accelerate her progress toward the elite.<\/p>\r\n\r\n