Hungarian GM Impressed by Gukesh's Team: 'India's Strong Chess Support System a Game-Changer'

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The 2022 FIDE World Champion, D Gukesh, made history as the youngest-ever champion in the sport. His impressive team of six seconds, comprising top players like Grzegorz Gajewski and Pentala Harikrishna, played a crucial role in his success. Recently, Richard Rapport, a member of Ding Liren's team, spoke highly of Gukesh's setup, calling it 'very impressive.' Rapport attributes the growth of chess in India to the country's strong support system. 'India has a robust base of fans,' he said, 'many of whom start playing chess at a young age. Their sponsors provide a safety net, allowing them to focus on their careers without worrying about prize money.' This unique support system gives Indian players a significant advantage, according to Rapport. Gukesh's team also included Paddy Upton, a renowned mental conditioning coach who has worked with the Indian cricket and hockey teams. Upton's expertise helped Gukesh prepare mentally for the World Championship. Rapport's comments highlight the changing landscape of professional chess, where top players are no longer solely reliant on prize money to make a living. Instead, they can focus on their craft, backed by a strong support system and sponsors.