Young Chess prodigy Praggnanandhaa believes World Champion Title Is within reach

Praggnanandhaa, the World Cup runner-up in chess, shared his insights and reflections in a recent interview. The 18-year-old grandmaster candidly discussed various aspects of his career, aspirations, and experiences.

Throughout the interview, Praggnanandhaa's curiosity and hunger for knowledge were evident. He expressed a deep interest in learning from chess legends like Viswanathan Anand and his former teammate, Magnus Carlsen. He always seeks to understand if there are innovative approaches or strategies that can improve his game. This attitude reflects his dedication to continuous improvement.

Ambition to become World Champion

Praggnanandhaa didn't shy away from expressing his ambition to become a world champion in chess. He acknowledged that there's still much to learn and improve upon but firmly believes in his potential to reach the pinnacle of the chess world. His confidence in his abilities is evident in his commitment to this goal.

One of Praggnanandhaa's strengths is his never-say-die attitude on the chessboard. From a young age, he developed a knack for finding resources to keep the game going even in challenging situations. This resilience has served him well in tournaments, including his World Cup run. However, he also recognized the importance of adapting his approach when needed, such as when aiming for a draw.

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Praggnanandhaa expressed his surprise at the rapid recognition he has received in India following his success in the World Cup. He noted that it was unexpected for a chess player to gain such widespread recognition so quickly in the country. He was pleased not only for himself but also for other strong players in India who he believes will receive recognition in due time.

While he acknowledged the nice feeling of being famous and the attention he has received, Praggnanandhaa also emphasized the need to stay grounded and not get too carried away by fame. He shared that he doesn't currently feel the pressure of high expectations but acknowledged that it might come in the future.

Balancing Chess with personal interests

Outside of chess, Praggnanandhaa enjoys watching Tamil movies as a way to unwind and take his mind off the game. He's also an avid follower of cricket, with a special admiration for cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, who shares his interest in chess.

Praggnanandhaa expressed deep gratitude to his family, particularly his mother Nagalakshmi and sister WGM R Vaishali, for their unwavering support. His mother plays a significant role, even preparing Indian food for him before his games.

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In summary, Praggnanandhaa's interview offers a glimpse into the mindset of a young chess prodigy who combines ambition with a thirst for learning. His journey in chess has been remarkable, and he is determined to continue his pursuit of excellence in the game, all while staying humble and grounded in the face of newfound fame.