Gukesh Dommaraju of India became the youngest world champion of chess after defeating defending world champion Ding Liren of China. The youngster clinched the victory by 7.5-6.5, winning the last game from a non-winning position.
After winning the match, the 18-year-old was unable to control his emotions and started crying tears of joy, overwhelmed by the significance of his achievement and the journey that led him to this moment. After Vishwanath Anand, Gukesh became the second Indian to win a world championship final.
In a post-match interview, Gukesh Dommaraju revealed that he idolized former Indian cricketer MS Dhoni as a youngster. He draws inspiration from Dhoni’s calm demeanor, leadership skills, and ability to perform under pressure, qualities that Gukesh strives to emulate in his own career.
He stated, “I think the way MS 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.”
Cricketer MS Dhoni is known for his exceptional leadership, strategic brilliance, and an unshakable sense of calmness under pressure. Dhoni’s ability to stay composed in high-pressure situations has been an inspiration to athletes worldwide. This trait not only defined his cricketing career but also serves as a valuable lesson in maintaining focus and making rational decisions during intense moments, both on and off the field.
Ding Liren tried to dominate the Indian youngster with his strategic prowess and calculated moves, but Gukesh, displaying remarkable resilience and determination, didn’t give up till the very last fight. Despite being under immense pressure, Gukesh held his ground, showcasing his fighting spirit and tactical acumen, ultimately earning the respect of his seasoned opponent and the admiration of chess enthusiasts worldwide.
Just like his idol MS Dhoni, Gukesh embodies remarkable composure and resilience under pressure, refusing to back down even in the most challenging situations. His unwavering focus and determination, much like Dhoni’s ability to finish games with a calm demeanor, have become defining traits of his rising career, inspiring countless fans and young aspirants.
