D Gukesh, the youngest world chess champion, is not just admired for his exceptional chess skills but also for his calm demeanor under pressure, which has played a pivotal role in his rise to the top. Interestingly, Gukesh credits one of India’s most iconic sports figures, MS Dhoni, for inspiring him to handle high-pressure situations with a clear mind. Their shared connection to Chennai, Gukesh’s hometown and Dhoni’s long-time leadership of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has only amplified this influence.
In an interview with the CSK YouTube channel, Gukesh spoke about how MS Dhoni’s ability to remain unflustered during intense moments of a cricket match deeply impacted his chess approach. “MS Dhoni is one sportsperson I really admire. To this day, he is the one. How he doesn’t react to anything that happens. How he is able to calmly think in any situation. In the highest-pressure moments, he is able to think with a clear mind,” Gukesh shared. Watching Dhoni maintain composure on the field during crucial moments, such as the 2011 World Cup final, sparked in D Gukesh the desire to mirror this level-headedness in his own game of chess.
For a sport like chess, where mental focus is crucial, staying calm is key, especially when stakes are high. Whether it’s the intense pressure of a critical match or the stress of a momentary lapse in strategy, Gukesh learned from Dhoni to avoid emotional reactions. This ability to “think simple” and maintain mental clarity, even during stressful situations, became an integral part of Gukesh’s chess mindset.
“I tend to think, how did Dhoni handle so much of pressure?”: D Gukesh
The IPL influence runs deep for Gukesh, who not only admires Dhoni’s leadership qualities but also his calm approach in handling pressure during high-stakes cricket moments. Gukesh confessed that he often reflects on how Dhoni would tackle pressure during his own chess games. “In those high-pressure moments, I tend to think, how did Dhoni handle so much of pressure?” said Gukesh. This thought process has helped the young grandmaster remain focused and make thoughtful moves on the chessboard.
A dedicated sports enthusiast, Gukesh, who also follows CSK’s journey in the IPL, recently visited the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk), where he met CSK spinner R. Ashwin. He expressed his admiration for Dhoni’s World Cup-winning six in 2011 as one of his most cherished memories.
D Gukesh’s rise to the top of the chess world reflects the powerful influence of MS Dhoni’s leadership and composure. As the world watches the upcoming IPL 2025 season, it’s clear that the connection between these two sporting icons will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.
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