Divya Deshmukh, the newly crowned Women’s World Cup champion, was felicitated by the Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday.
Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, who had finished runner-up to Divya after being beaten in the tie-break following the classical games had been drawn, joined online from her home for the felicitation.
“Grandmasters like you serve as inspiration for the new generation. More youngsters will take to sports, especially a mind game like chess,” said the Sports Minister.
Applauding Humpy on her long innings in the game, Mandaviya said, “I have read about Humpy and know that she has inspired many in her journey. I remember going home and watching her games with my children”.
The 19-year-old Divya, who hails from Nagpur, acknowledged the felicitation with commendable maturity.
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“I am very happy that the title has come to India. Humpy played very well, but I was lucky. Today, I feel very happy to be felicitated by the Sports Minister. This motivates athletes and gives youngsters the message that they have the support of the country,” said Divya.
“It was a long and exhausting tournament. I am happy that I was able to play till the end. With two players of different generations competing in the final from India, we ensured that the title for our country,” said Humpy.