When we think chess the first name that comes to mind is Viswanathan Anand. In a sport that requires mind over matter, Anand has been in the thick of things since he became a grandmaster in 1988. He was the first Indian to achieve the feat.
The man has won the World Championship 5 times. When he held it from 2000 to 2002, he was the first Asian to do so. In 2007 he was in the number one position and his current rank is 9.?
What makes his achievements really special is the fact that he hails from a country that is crazy for cricket. Despite that, Anand has been able to make a name for himself in his field of expertise. If it's Sachin Tendulkar in cricket, it's Anand in chess.?
Anand took up chess when he was 6 from his mother but he developed it while staying in Manila, Philippines. It proved to be the right move as it came to him naturally and in the years to come he would become a household name in the sport.?
Known as the Tiger of Madras, Anand has been the inspiration for many other chess players including Magnus Carlsen who defeated him later to win the World Championship.?
He is well liked and respected among his peers has his focus is more on the game than anything else. Even at 50, he is not slowing down as the mind of course is as sharp as ever. Don't be surprised if some more titles come under his belt.?
His legacy cannot be rivaled because he is in a class of his own. Anand put India on the chess map and for that he shall forever be etched in the sport's history.?
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