When I was about six, I saw my elder siblings play chess and pestered my mother into teaching me. Very soon, I was beating everyone at home, and they thought it would be good to join a club. So my… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
My job is to play chess, the game that I love. I achieve what I can in chess. That is what I focus on. Basically, I am always focused on playing the game, and this is important to me. — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
My parents were very supportive of my chess. When I got home after a game of chess, having missed school or something, they always… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
Preparedness for a game that usually lasts four-five hours requires good physical condition and also steady nerves. — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
I would never suggest to anyone that they drop school for chess. First of all even if you can make it in chess, your… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
Just before a game, I try to keep a clear mind so that I can focus better. I'm the kind of person who plays… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
You need to motivate yourself, no matter what-definitely when things are bad, but also when things are good. Or else, you risk becoming complacent. — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
Each match I approach like a new one. The work is so immense that you don't have time to sit and ponder. — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
For me, chess is not a profession, it is a way of life, a passion. People may feel that I have conquered the peak… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
Before a game, I avoid having a heavy meal so that I don't feel sleepy at the board. You eat to be healthy, and… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
I personally prefer long-distance walking, but we are talking about pre-tournament preparation. During a tournament I make do with walking, mainly to concentrate before… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
Confidence is very important - even pretending to be Confident. If you make a Mistake but do not let your Opponent see what you… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
I feel that schools and corporates should help the government in popularising sports in the country. Blaming the government for every sporting debacle will… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
I was reasonably interested in mathematics in school. Typically what happens is... when you start playing chess, it takes up a lot of your… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
Chess has given me a lot more than I could ask for. I have been able to feel special, travel the world and do… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
Parents, first and foremost, it is important to... understand and recognise the activities your child is naturally gravitating towards. It's important also to ensure… — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
Intuition in chess can be defined as the first move that comes to mind when you see a position. — Viswanathan Anand Copy Share Image
