Gukesh and His Secret W... - EtherGalaxy Trading Center

Gukesh D of India beat Ding Liren to become the World Chess Champion in 2024. (FIDE/Screengrab)

Gukesh D of India created history after beating Ding Liren of China and clinching the World Chess Championship title. In a series of 14 games, which was nothing short of a roller-coaster ride, Gukesh underwent a multitude of emotions, which also resulted in him breaking down in tears. However, a crucial factor contributing to his success was the guidance of renowned sports psychologist Paddy Upton.

Upton, a renowned sports psychologist, played a key role in India's 2011 Cricket World Cup triumph. Under his tutelage, Gukesh enhanced his focus, enabling him to outmanoeuvre the reigning champion.

“Working with Paddy has been super enjoyable. And considering the height of the world championship, there are more emotional struggles more than any other tournament. So yeah, we had a lot of conversations. I learnt a lot,” Gukesh had revealed after game 11.

“He said a lot of things that has helped me in many of the games. Because whenever you lose your focus or you get emotional, you should come back to the game and play the best move. And it is not always easy to do,” he added.

“So his teachings have really helped me a lot,” Gukesh explained.

Before the tournament, Gukesh and Upton got in touch via Sandeep Singhal of WestBridge Capital. Upton, who was impressed with the 18-year-old’s maturity and thinking, compared Gukesh’s personality to that of legendary South African allrounder Jacques Kallis.

On the final day, Upton specially flew down to Singapore to help the Indian in the final couple of games. “I have flown in to support Gukesh in the final two games. We haven’t discussed anything special for this decisive game – he has a plan for the fourteen games, and he will stick to it.”

Upton also revealed that he had spoken to Gukesh once a week for the last 6 months, with the plan to have him so ready no contact was needed during the match.

Interestingly, Upton has been a common figure not only in India’s 2011 Cricket World Cup win but also in the bronze in hockey at the Paris Olympics. So that makes it three of the greatest moments in India’s sports history.