Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa: The Rising Star of Indian Chess in Action
Title: Indian Chess Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa Highlights Need for Corporate Sponsors in Chess
Indian chess Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa, who recently participated in the FIDE Candidates in Canada for the first time, emphasized the importance of corporate sponsors in the sport of Chess. Despite the misconception that training for chess is easy and cheap, Praggnanandhaa revealed that it is actually a very expensive sport, especially when it comes to travel and training paraphernalia.
Praggnanandhaa, who signed a long term sponsorship agreement with the Adani Group earlier this year, is currently in Poland taking part in the Rapid and Blitz tournament. Reflecting on his experience in Canada, he mentioned, “The experience was very good. It is a big tournament where the pressure is huge. In terms of the result, I played better than I scored. I must learn from what went wrong and focus on future tournaments.”
The young Grandmaster is gearing up for a packed schedule ahead, including his maiden Grand Chess Tour. He expressed his excitement for upcoming tournaments such as the Rapid and Blitz tournament in Poland, the Superbet Romania classical tournament, the Saint Louis Rapid and Blitz, the Sinquefield Cup, Norway Chess, and the Real Masters in Switzerland.
Praggnanandhaa acknowledged the crucial role of corporate sponsors in his journey, stating, “The Adani Group has been amazing. Chess training may look easy and cheap but it’s a very expensive sport due to all the travel and paraphernalia. That’s why I am grateful for the support. The training camps cost a lot. Thanks to the Adani Group, we don’t have to worry too much about that, and I can focus on playing chess.”
He also highlighted the physical and mental preparation required for top-tier tournaments, emphasizing the importance of being ready with opening ideas and maintaining focus throughout long games. Praggnanandhaa shared that he engages in physical sports like badminton and beach volleyball to keep his mind and body fresh for the challenges ahead.
As he continues to strive for success in the world of chess, Praggnanandhaa’s story serves as a reminder of the essential role corporate sponsors play in supporting young talents in sports.