A 10-year-old from Thiruvananthapuram, Divi Bijesh, has clinched the Under-12 girls title at the Commonwealth Chess Championship 2025, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from November 9 to 16.

She finished with an impressive 8.5/9, delivering a dominant performance despite competing in a higher age category.

Chose tougher category and excelled

Divi’s father, Bijesh, said she opted to play in the Under-12 category even though she belongs to the Under-10 age group. He added that her commanding score reflected her strong form throughout the tournament.

The Commonwealth Chess Championship features 13 categories across youth and senior levels, attracting top-ranked players and Grandmasters from across Commonwealth nations.

‘I tried my best in every game’

Divi said she was delighted with her performance.

"I am happy that I won. I tried my best in every game. Some rounds were very tough, but I didn't give up. I thank my parents, my coaches, and everyone who supports me," she said.

Her father said the victory marked another milestone in her remarkable journey.

"This victory is special because Divi competed with older players and still held her ground with confidence… We are proud of her perseverance and the calm way she handles challenges," he said.

A year of major global wins

According to a press release, Divi’s achievements in 2025 include titles such as World Cup U-10 Girls Champion, World Cadet Rapid Champion, World Cadet Blitz Vice Champion, and World Schools Chess Vice Champion.

With more than 75 medals across international, national, and state events, she is also Kerala’s youngest Woman Candidate Master (WCM) and India’s first-ever U-10 Girls World Cup Champion.