Paddy Upton: The Mental Coach Behind Gukesh’s Historic World Chess Championship Win

Paddy Upton, the renowned mental coach who has worked with top athletes across various sports, has once again left his mark in India, this time in the world of chess. Known for his successful stints with the Indian cricket team and hockey team, as well as the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, Upton has now played a crucial role in D. Gukesh’s historic achievement as the youngest World chess champion.

Despite not planning to be present for Gukesh’s triumph, Upton made a last-minute decision to fly to witness the young prodigy’s victory. “I decided to fly here because I really had a strong sense I was coming to watch Gukesh win,” Upton shared with Sportstar. His intuition proved right as Gukesh emerged victorious, thanks in part to Upton’s guidance.

Reflecting on his role in Gukesh’s preparation, Upton emphasized the importance of navigating obstacles and finding the right balance in approaching such a significant moment. Impressed by Gukesh’s self-reflection and self-awareness, Upton commended the young player’s ability to understand his thoughts and emotions, a crucial aspect of mental coaching.

As Upton continues to make a positive impact on Indian athletes, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with them. “For me, it’s just a big thank you for being invited,” Upton said with a smile. With his expertise and dedication, Upton has once again proven to be a valuable asset in the success of Indian athletes on the global stage.