Chess: ‘Pressure does not matter’ – Divya Deshmukh on MS Dhoni comparisons | Chess News
Newly-crowned FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup champion Divya Deshmukh said she is an aggressive player who doesn’t let pressure get to her. The 19-year-old made history in Batumi, Georgia on July 28 by becoming the youngest ever winner of the Women’s World Cup after defeating fellow Indian and veteran Grandmaster Koneru Humpy in a thrilling tie-breaker. The win not only earned her the prestigious title but also secured her Grandmaster title, capping off a remarkable campaign.“Pressure does not matter much to me. What matters is my own expectations and goals,” said Deshmukh to reporters, as quoted by PTI. Known for her bold and attacking play on the board, she added that aggression is a natural part of her style. “It is easier for me to go into tactics and aggressive positions,” she explained. When asked about comparisons with former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni, often celebrated for his calm under pressure and mental strength, Deshmukh said, “I think aggressiveness was always in my play. It is easier for me to go into tactics and aggressive positions. I think it is my style.” On comparisons with fellow teenage chess sensation D Gukesh, who became the youngest men’s world champion after beating China’s Ding Liren in December, Deshmukh said, “I think the fact that we both fight till the end is the biggest similarity.” Reflecting on the increased attention and expectations following her World Cup triumph, Deshmukh said she has been used to dealing with pressure over the years.
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“But after a time, it doesn’t matter whether there is pressure from 100 persons or a lakh. For me what matters is my own expectation and my own goals,” she said. “Obviously, pressure is always there in your head but I try not to look at it or think about it.”
