I honestly don't remember when and why I started calling my mom 'Momsi'. These are family things; it starts for some reason. It's not that I just call her Momsi; I call her other things as well! Viswanathan Anand callfamilyhonestly Change image and share on social
When you play with the best in the world, it is important that you not lose focus. You must be fully focused. Even a minor error could result in a massive defeat. Viswanathan Anand defeaterrorfocus Change image and share on social
I attend to my fitness. I go the gym every day and try to maintain my physical fitness; without that, it is tough to take challenges on the chess board. Viswanathan Anand attendboardchallenge Change image and share on social
There are two aspects to being competitive; one is to do with sports, and the other is about technical skills. Being able to recollect the moves and apply them when necessary is a critical aspect. Viswanathan Anand applyaspectcompetitive Change image and share on social
Professional players work almost every day, for hours on end, and the emphasis is on the word 'work.' It can be with a partner or it can be alone, but professional chess is always a pursuit of something new and surprising. Viswanathan Anand chessdayemphasis share on social
Parents, first and foremost, it is important to... understand and recognise the activities your child is naturally gravitating towards. It's important also to ensure that your child likes what he or she is doing. I believe in exposing children to as many hobbies and extracurricular activities as possible. Viswanathan Anand activitychildensure share on social
For me, each game is a new challenge, which has to be dealt with rationally and systematically. At that time, every other thought fades into oblivion. Viswanathan Anand challengedealfade Change image and share on social
When there's an important tournament going on, I try and stay in a bubble. It's easy that way because then you don't have to worry about anything else. Viswanathan Anand bubbleeasyimportant Change image and share on social
Chess has given me a lot more than I could ask for. I have been able to feel special, travel the world and do what I truly enjoy. Moreover, chess players love being their own boss and hate having to wake up early! Viswanathan Anand boschessearly share on social
It's important, according to me, to train in small doses so as to not lose the joy of playing chess. I personally think too many coaching and training classes may take away a child's interest in the game itself. The essential thing to do is practise often and, in case of a doubt, to consult a trainer. Viswanathan Anand casechesschild share on social