Gukesh, the rising star in the world of chess, continues to reflect on his journey with a remarkable sense of humility and gratitude. When speaking about the early days of his chess career, he shared the struggles his family endured to support his passion. "When I started playing chess, we had to make some hard decisions as a family. My parents sacrificed a lot and faced hardships, especially financial ones. Today, we are in a better place, and it means a lot that they don't have to worry about these things anymore," Gukesh shared in an interview with FIDE. His words resonate deeply, reflecting the significant sacrifices his parents made to help him chase his dreams and the sense of relief he feels knowing that they no longer face those struggles.
For Gukesh, chess has always been more than just a game; it has been a source of unbridled joy from the very beginning. "I am still the kid who loves chess. When I first got my chess board, it was the coolest toy I had," he recalled with a smile, showing that despite his success, the simple pleasure he derives from the game remains unchanged. His love for the game is not just rooted in the victories, but in the enduring excitement and fascination he has for chess itself.
Gukesh also spoke about the significant role his parents have played in his growth, not only as a chess player but as an individual. "For me, my parents are everything," he said, recognizing the crucial role his father plays as his manager and his mother’s unwavering emotional and spiritual support. He fondly shared that his mother has always reminded him, "while it's great to be a great chess player, it's even better to be a greater person." This advice has been a cornerstone of his development, shaping the way he views both his success and the world around him. His parents’ constant guidance ensures that, despite his remarkable achievements, Gukesh remains grounded.
Even after reaching such incredible heights in his career, Gukesh continues to approach chess with humility. "The more you learn about chess, the more you realize how little you know. Even the greatest players make mistakes, and there's still so much to uncover, even with advanced technology," he explained. This self-awareness highlights his commitment to continuous improvement and his understanding that the pursuit of excellence in chess, as in life, is never truly complete.
Chess, for Gukesh, is a never-ending journey of discovery, one that offers "unlimited beauty." "Every time I play, I learn something new. It's the process that fascinates me," he remarked. His love for the game extends beyond just the final outcomes, as he emphasizes the importance of the journey itself. "If I lose a beautiful game, I will feel sad, but if I win despite not playing great, I will still be happy. The destination matters, though the journey is equally important," Gukesh explained, encapsulating the mindset of a player who sees each game as an opportunity for growth, no matter the result.
Reflecting on his World Chess Championship final against China's Ding Liren, Gukesh acknowledged that the match, while significant, was not a perfect display of brilliance. He noted his own approach, which focused on his desire to win rather than fearing a loss. "He should have pushed more, but I wasn't surprised by his safer strategy," Gukesh observed, adding that Liren's cautious play in the second game, opting for a draw, was not entirely unexpected. Gukesh credited his ability to play freely and attack, which ultimately led to his victory. His boldness and confidence in his game were key to his success, allowing him to dictate the pace of the match and come out on top.
Despite his newfound fame and success, Gukesh remains remarkably down-to-earth and embraces the simple joys of life. One such moment was his impromptu dance after his Chess Olympiad victory, which went viral on social media. "I've always been the one sitting in the corner when my friends danced. But now they insist I join in after seeing that video," he said with a chuckle, revealing his lighthearted side. It’s moments like these that remind people that, beneath the incredible chess-playing genius, Gukesh is still a teenager with a sense of humor and a love for life.
Another moment of levity came when Gukesh revealed that he had not eaten ice cream for an entire year. "I haven't had ice cream for a year. Maybe now I'll treat myself," he said with a grin. The reason behind this ice cream hiatus is not entirely clear, but his admission brought a smile to many of his fans. Gukesh also expressed his gratitude for a Singaporean chef who kept him fueled during his championship with his favorite South Indian dishes. These moments highlight Gukesh’s down-to-earth personality and his appreciation for the little things in life, even as he reaches the pinnacle of success.
As the world celebrates his achievements, Gukesh remains centered on his love for the game. "At the end of the day, I play chess because it brings me joy," he said, a statement that sums up his perspective perfectly. It is this simple yet profound outlook that has endeared him to fans around the world. Despite his early success, Gukesh’s journey is just beginning, and his future in the world of chess looks incredibly bright. With his grounded attitude, unwavering passion, and commitment to growth, he is sure to continue inspiring others, not only as a chess player but as a person of character.
