Zhu Jiner and Divya Deshmukh Lead 2025 Pune FIDE Women’s Grand Prix with Perfect Scores

GM Zhu Jiner and IM Divya Deshmukh Lead 2025 Pune FIDE Women’s Grand Prix with Perfect Scores

In an exciting turn of events at the 2025 Pune FIDE Women’s Grand Prix, GM Zhu Jiner and IM Divya Deshmukh emerged victorious in their second games on Tuesday, taking the lead with a perfect 2/2 score. Zhu showcased her strategic prowess by grinding down IM Batkhuyag Munguntuul in a rook endgame that lasted 66 moves, while Divya secured her win as GM Vaishali Rameshbabu made a critical mistake in the opening.

The round also saw draws in the games between IM Salome Melia and GM Humpy Koneru, IM Polina Shuvalova and IM Nurgul Salimova, and GM Harika Dronavalli and IM Alina Kashlinskaya. With round three set to begin on Wednesday, April 16, the competition is heating up in Pune.

Divya Deshmukh’s impressive start in Pune goes beyond her results on the board. The young IM from Nagpur showcased her preparation skills by making key decisions in the London System and Open Spanish lines, leading to her early success in the tournament. Reflecting on her win against Vaishali, Divya remained humble, acknowledging the mistake made by her opponent.

Meanwhile, Zhu Jiner displayed her expertise in a different type of game, securing her second win against Munguntuul with a strong performance in the rook endgame. As the competition intensifies, all eyes will be on the upcoming clash between Divya and Humpy, as well as the strategic battles between other top players in the tournament.

Chess enthusiasts can catch all the action live on Chess.com India’s YouTube channel or follow the games on the dedicated event page. With the 2025 Pune FIDE Women’s Grand Prix being a crucial leg in the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix series, the stakes are high for the players competing for the top prize and Grand Prix points.

Stay tuned for more updates and coverage of the 2025 Pune FIDE Women’s Grand Prix as the competition unfolds in Pune, India.