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Newly-crowned world chess champion D Gukesh is looking forward to the day when the sport will become a part of the Olympic curriculum, which, he said, would take it to an altogether different level not just in India but across the world.
The 18-year-old, who defeated China’s Ding Liren in Singapore recently to become the world champion, added during a function organised by the All India Chess Federation (AICF) on Thursday to felicitate him and World Rapid champion Koneru Humpy that he had finally settled down following nearly month-long celebrations and was looking forward to his next tournament.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a strong pitch to host the 2036 Olympics in India and Gukesh said it would be a dream come true if the grand spectacle is awarded to India and chess is part of the curriculum.
“I would love to see chess being part of the Olympics, especially if it’s in India. I think chess has been getting a lot of popularity and a lot of support. I’m really happy for it, and the Olympics will take it to the next level. Really looking forward to it,” Gukesh said at the function, where Humpy, who won her second World Rapid title in New York recently, too was felicitated.
AICF also announced an award of Rs one crore for Gukesh for becoming the youngest-ever Grandmaster to win the world crown. Recognising the effort of Gukesh’s support staff, the federation also gave Rs 50 lakh to his team which helped him prepare for the mega event.
Humpy got Rs 50 lakh for her efforts, while R Vaishali, winner of bronze in the World Blitz Championship in New York was given Rs 20 lakh.
With the seemingly ceaseless cycle of celebrations now showing signs of ebbing, the 18-year-old world champions said he will be flying to Wijk Aan Zee in the Netherlands for elite Tata Chess tournament, where he will play his opening game on Saturday.
“We were all celebrating and then it majorly settled down, and I am on to the next tournament. The attention we have been getting is very good for chess,” said Gukesh, who will be playing his first tournament since winning the World Championship.
With Gukesh set to receive the Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award from the President, he said it was a “really special” occasion.
“I feel very honoured to receive the Khel Ratna award, and after Vishy sir me being the second Indian chess player to receive the award is really special,” said Gukesh.
