Indian Chess Player Divya Deshmukh Calls Out Sexism in the Game, Advocates for Equal Respect for Women
Indian Chess Star Divya Deshmukh Calls Out Sexism in the Game
New Delhi – Rising chess star Divya Deshmukh has taken a bold stand against the pervasive sexism she believes exists within the chess community, advocating for equal respect for women in the sport. The 18-year-old International Master, who clinched a bronze medal at the 2022 Chess Olympiad and triumphed at the Asian Women’s Chess Championship in Almaty last year, has opened up about her experiences as a female player in a male-dominated arena.
In a heartfelt social media post, Deshmukh expressed her frustration over the way female players are often overlooked and underappreciated, with spectators focusing more on their appearance than their skills. Reflecting on her recent participation in a Masters event in the Netherlands, she noted that comments following her interviews highlighted a troubling trend: “I got told, and also noticed, how women in chess are often just taken for granted by spectators.”
Deshmukh recounted how, despite her impressive gameplay, the audience seemed more interested in her clothing, hair, and accent than the matches themselves. “I felt it was unfair,” she stated. “If I go to any guy’s interview, there would be way less judgment on a personal level and more actual compliments about the game.”
The young player emphasized that this issue is not just a personal grievance but a systemic problem that many women face in chess. “I think women should start getting equal respect,” she urged, highlighting the need for a cultural shift within the chess community.
Historically, chess has been dominated by men, with figures like Nigel Short, vice-president of the World Chess Federation (FIDE), controversially claiming in 2015 that men are “hardwired” to be better than women at the game. Such statements have drawn ire from female players, who argue that the culture surrounding chess often normalizes predatory behavior and diminishes the achievements of women.
Prominent figures in the chess world, including Grandmaster Susan Polgar, have also spoken out against the sexism prevalent in the sport. Polgar revealed that she consciously tried to appear “plain and unattractive” during her career to avoid being sexualized, a testament to the challenges female players face.
Deshmukh’s call for change resonates with many in the chess community, as she urges fans and fellow players alike to recognize the talent and hard work of women in the game. As she continues to break barriers and achieve remarkable feats, her voice adds to the growing movement advocating for equality and respect in chess.
As the conversation around sexism in chess gains momentum, Deshmukh’s courage to speak out may inspire a new generation of female players to pursue their passion without fear of judgment, paving the way for a more inclusive future in the sport.