‘Without God performing so many miracles, I couldn’t be here,’ says World Chess Champion Gukesh
World Chess Championship winner D. Gukesh said that the journey to the title was nothing short of a dream after being crowned at the official presentation ceremony in Singapore on Thursday.
“It feels like I have lived this moment a million times in my head. Every morning, this moment was the reason why I woke up and why I did every little thing so far. To be here and experience this moment in reality means everything,” Gukesh said.
“This journey has been beautiful because of the kind of people around me. I would like to thank the organisers of this match. They did an amazing job and I am super glad to be in a beautiful country like Singapore. Huge thanks to Singaporeans, the organising committee.”
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Gukesh’s title win came after he trumped reigning champion Ding Liren in the 14th round. The game was set for a draw before the reigning champion blundered in the 55th move, effectively gifting the game to his rival.
“I would also like to thank my opponent Ding Liren. He is in my eyes a true champion. We saw, despite a lot of pressure on him, he was able to put on a huge fight. This match was the show it was because of his fighting spirit. I really admire you and thank you for this amazing fight,” he said.
“I would like to thank all the people who have supported me throughout my career and worked super hard for this one moment. I would like to start with my parents and this win means more to them than it means for me… I would like to thank Paddy (Upton), who has been a huge support in this match.”
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The Indian Grandmaster also added that belief in God helped me persevere during tough times in the summit clash.
“In so many moments in life, when I couldn’t see the solution, God was the only person who could pull me through these moments and show me the right way. Without God performing so many miracles, I couldn’t be here,” he quipped.