Women's World Cup SF: Two draws, tension rises

by André Schulz
7/23/2025 – Both semifinal matches at the Women's World Cup in Batumi ended in draws, leaving qualification for the final to be decided in Wednesday's second classical games. Lei Tingjie and Humpy Koneru drew after a tense, strategic battle, while Tan Zhongyi and Divya Deshmukh split the point in a shorter, balanced game. With three Candidates spots at stake, the outcomes of the remaining games will be crucial for all four players. | Photo: Anna Shtourman / FIDE
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The first games of the Women’s World Cup semifinals in Batumi ended with two draws, leaving both matches to be decided in the second classical game on Wednesday. The semifinals have effectively taken on the character of a China–India matchup, with Chinese representatives Lei Tingjie and Tan Zhongyi facing Indian opponents Humpy Koneru and Divya Deshmukh, respectively.

Beyond qualification for the final, three of the four semifinalists will also earn a spot in the next Women’s Candidates Tournament, adding further significance to the outcome.

Lei Tingjie, playing white against Humpy Koneru, entered the game as slight favourite based on her recent performance and live rating. However, it was Humpy who surprised her opponent in the opening, forcing Lei to avoid complications and steer the game into quieter territory. Although Lei appeared to have chances for an edge in the middlegame, the balance shifted, and by the end it was Humpy who had the more comfortable position.

The game ultimately ended in a draw, but not without strategic tension on both sides.

Humpy Koneru

Humpy Koneru being interviewed by Michael Rahal | Photo: Anna Shtourman

The other board saw a shorter and more balanced game between Tan Zhongyi and Divya Deshmukh. Playing Black, Divya handled the opening solidly and achieved equality without much difficulty. Tan, who has remained undefeated throughout the tournament, was unable to create serious winning chances and the players agreed to a draw in what was a quiet but correct performance by both.

The second games will take place on Wednesday, with the colours reversed: Humpy and Divya will have the white pieces. With both matches still tied, a decisive result in either game would secure a place in the final and an automatic qualification for the Candidates. If both matches are drawn again, the outcomes will be decided in tiebreaks.

Tan Zhongyi

Tan Zhongyi | Photo: Anna Shtourman

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André Schulz started working for ChessBase in 1991 and is an editor of ChessBase News.