Gukesh - (Source:@Johns/X.com)
On Thursday, December 12, Gukesh scripted history as he beat China's Ding Liren to win the World Chess Championship. The 18-year-old became the youngest player in history to win the prestigious chess tournament.
Gukesh, who became just the second Indian after Vishy Anand to win the prestigious tournament, had to wait till the last of the 14-round event to get his hands on the title.
Gukesh Calls MS Dhoni His Inspiration
Meanwhile, it is worth noting that the Chennai-based Chess star has previously expressed his admiration for MS Dhoni, who has played a big part in his lift. The 18-year-old had called Dhoni as his inspiration alongside Tennis star Novak Djokovic.
"When I was younger, it was Indian cricketer MS Dhoni, now it's Novak Djokovic. I think both are great athletes and I admire a lot of things about both of them. I think the way Dhoni and tennis great Novak Djokovic handle themselves under immense pressure, they are big-game players and always come out on top and bring out their best whenever needed. That is why I am attracted to them," Gukesh had told PTI.
Gukesh Working With India's 2011 Conditioning Coach Paddy Upton
Similar to MS Dhoni, Gukesh too held his calm throughout the entire event as the final was tied at 6.5-6.5 after 13 rounds. Also, it is worth mentioning that Gukesh hired mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton in October to help him for the World Chess Championship.
Notably, Upton worked with the Indian team during the 2011 World Cup, and he had an immense contribution in the title-winning edition. He was also a part of India's hockey team during 2024 Paris Olympics.
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 "Abhinav Tyagi")
