Gukesh Navigates New Realities After Historic Chess Triumph
Mumbai: For D Gukesh, the monumental achievement of becoming the youngest world chess champion in history has ushered in a phase where the real test unfolds. At just 18 years old, the prodigy is discovering that victory brings not only accolades but also intensified expectations from the global chess community and from within himself.
The Weight of Expectations and Personal Growth
In a candid reflection, Gukesh shared how life transformed after his 2024 title win. "The whole journey in 2024 — the Candidates, the Olympiad, and the World Championship — was very successful and very beautiful, but it also changed a lot of things around me," he revealed. "There were a lot of expectations and other things to deal with. The last year has had a lot of positives but also brought challenges." As he experiments with different chess formats, absorbs inevitable losses, and prepares to defend his coveted title, the young champion is learning to balance pressure with personal development.
Pivotal Moments and Mental Fortitude
When asked to revisit his championship match, Gukesh pinpointed a critical juncture. "The moment I was most proud of myself was during the streak of seven draws," he recalled. "I was getting frustrated and starting to panic. Then my coach, Gaju (Polish Grandmaster Grzegorz Gajewski) and I had a good conversation. Considering it was my first World Championship and the expectations, I was very happy with the mental strength I showed." This episode underscores the psychological demands of elite chess, where resilience often dictates outcomes.
Learning More From Defeats Than Victories
Gukesh emphasized the educational value of setbacks in his rapid ascent. "Definitely, losses teach you more than wins," he asserted. "Considering my age, even though I’ve been at the top for a few years, I still need a lot of experience. Confidence can take a hit when things go badly." This perspective highlights his maturity, acknowledging that growth in chess, as in life, often springs from adversity rather than success.
Reacting to Viral Moments and Memes
The interview also touched on a lighter note: the viral incident with former champion Magnus Carlsen last year, which spawned numerous memes. "When it happened, I didn’t really realise it because I was mostly shocked by the way the game turned around," Gukesh admitted. "I didn’t pay much attention to him banging the table at that moment. Later, when I saw the videos and memes, I laughed quite a bit." This response showcases his ability to maintain humor amidst the intense scrutiny of the chess world.
Recognition and the Rise of Chess in India
Gukesh expressed gratitude for being named Titan of the Year, viewing it as a milestone for the sport. "Being named Titan of the Year is very special, both personally and because it shows chess is getting more spotlight," he said. "I’m really happy that major Indian brands are supporting chess." This endorsement reflects a growing recognition of chess in India, fueled by his historic achievement and the increasing corporate investment in the game.
As Gukesh continues to adapt to his new role as world champion, his journey offers insights into the pressures of elite sports, the importance of mental resilience, and the evolving landscape of chess in India. With his title defense on the horizon, all eyes will be on this young titan to see how he navigates the next chapter of his remarkable career.
