World chess champion Gukesh Dommaraju, who rules to display MS Dhoni, a famous cricketer, as his primary influence. Born in Chennai, the chess phenom lauded the former captain of India’s cool-headed under duress and said he applies Dhoni’s attitude in important situations.

Gukesh told how observing Dhoni’s cool demeanor on the cricket field affected his chess approach at the famous MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk).

The effect of Gukesh’s chess career on MS Dhoni

“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. I grew up watching that. It felt like I had to emulate it in my own craft,” Gukesh said.

The young grandmaster underlined Dhoni’s technique of managing pressure as being especially important in shaping his attitude. “In that sense, he really inspired me. I don’t react to things much. I am good at handling pressure. In that way, he has really helped me in my career. Not only as an inspiration but in my game as well.”

Gukesh on Dhoni’s mantra for dealing under pressure.

During his 7.5-6.5 triumph over Ding Liren in the FIDE World Championship in Singapore, Gukesh displayed his tenacity and calm, for which he has become known. He attributes his ability to keep a sharp mind during challenging chess matches to Dhoni’s philosophy.

I usually reflect on how in a specific instance Dhoni managed so much pressure when there was a high-pressure event. Gukesh said, “Those things have really helped me calm down.”

Recalling Dhoni’s well-known words, he mentioned, “Dhoni, I think, said in an interview: ‘Keep doing the simple things, keep the mind clear when the situation is very difficult.’ When facing tough situations in chess, I try to create that same calmness within myself. Having seen Dhoni so many times, it has impacted me.”

Game recognizes game!🥳

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Gukesh’s Favorite MS Dhoni Moment: From A Practicing Observer, MS Dhoni.

Dhoni’s match-winning six in the 2011 ICC World Cup final against Sri Lanka remains Gukesh’s most cherished cricketing moment. He said, “That six over long-on in the 2011 World Cup final—it’s a memorable memory.”

Gukesh visited Chepauk and met Indian spin great Ravichandran Ashwin, who came back to CSK after ten years. The two not only talked about cricket and chess but also played a chess game. Ashwin gifted Gukesh a unique jersey as well in recognition of a notable meeting of two sports stars.