Paddy Upton, who’s worked with 2011 WC-winning Indian team and the 2024 bronze-medal-winning Indian hockey team, calls Gukesh’s win the highlight of his career.
Gukesh Dommaraju, the 18-year-old sensation, stunned the world, becoming the youngest-ever world champion by beating China’s Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship. Throughout 14 games, Gukesh showed remarkable mental strength and grit to maintain his resolve and emerge triumphant in the toughest of situations. Not many are aware, but Gukesh, while revelling in self-belief, also had someone else’s support heading into the marquee battle against Ding Liren.
Paddy Upton needs no introduction. The renowned mental coach to professional athletes previously worked with the Indian men’s cricket team during the 2011 World Cup win and guided the Indian men’s hockey team to a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Upton opened up on working with Gukesh heading into the World Chess Championship match against Liren, highlighting the 18-year-old’s terrific mental resolve. During the conversation, Paddy also likened Gukesh to Rahul Dravid, saying the youngster’s mannerisms after the final showcase was a “masterclass in humility.”
