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For Gukesh, the road to etching his name in history was long and winding, but the only thing that mattered to him was to always enjoy the game and himself, whilst staying curious and open-minded.
World Champion D Gukesh (X)
The 18th World Champion at just 18 years of age. It’s no mean feat, and it was anything but a clear path to the same. D Gukesh expounded on his internal journey throughout the World Championship final and his career as a whole, whilst speaking to the press in Chennai on Monday.
Coming back from Singapore after his historic world champion title win, Gukesh and his parents were greeted with embraces, cheers and garlands galore as crowds swarmed the Chennai International Airport in anticipation of the new World Champion.
Gukesh then opened up about his thought process and the emotions he experiences as he went game-for-game till the very end against Chinese GM Ding Liren in the final.
“I was going through a lot of emotions during the match. I was anticipating the tiebreak in the 14th game. But, when I got to know that I won, I couldn’t believe it. It was such an overwhelming experience,’ stated Gukesh.
“I knew there was a chance it could go to tiebreaks. That’s the level of competition I was up against. But, I knew I would have my chance to win. It was my dream to become the world champion. I thank all those who have supported me.”
For Gukesh, the road to etching his name in history was long and winding, but the only thing that mattered to him was to always enjoy the game and himself, whilst staying curious and open-minded.
“Setbacks happen during a long match. I was prepared for the same. I knew I would be nervous in the first game and it was a bit scary. But, once I got into the rhythm, I got my confidence back,” Gukesh said.
“Enjoy whatever you do. Always be curious and as long as your process is right, the outcome will be in your favour.”
For Gukesh, the outcome entailed with the 18-year-old becoming the youngest-ever player to become World Champion in chess. So perhpas, there are more truth to his words, which may be beyond his years.