18-year-old D Gukesh, who made history as the youngest ever world chess champion, has his sights set on seeing chess become an Olympic sport. At a recent felicitation ceremony in New Delhi, Gukesh expressed his desire for chess to be included in the Olympics, especially if it's in India. The President of India honored him with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, making him just the second chess player after Viswanathan Anand to receive the prestigious award. Despite achieving great success at a young age, Gukesh remains determined to continue working hard and bringing more accolades to his country.
Chess Grandmaster D Gukesh Aspires for Chess in the Olympics
Eighteen-year-old chess prodigy D Gukesh has set his sights on a new milestone: advocating for the inclusion of chess in the Olympic Games. This aspiration emerged during a felicitation ceremony in New Delhi, where Gukesh was honored with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award.
Background
Chess has a rich history as a competitive sport, with tournaments and championships held around the world. However, it has never been officially recognized as an Olympic discipline. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has long campaigned for the inclusion of chess in the Games, arguing its intellectual and strategic nature aligns with the Olympic values.
D Gukesh's Advocacy
As the youngest person ever to become a world chess champion, Gukesh's voice holds significant weight. His desire to see chess included in the Olympics, especially if hosted in India, reflects the growing support for the sport's recognition as an Olympic discipline.
Benefits of Chess in the Olympics
Proponents of including chess in the Olympics cite several benefits, including:
FAQs
1. Why isn't chess currently an Olympic sport?
A: Despite FIDE's efforts, chess has not yet been officially recognized as an Olympic discipline due to factors such as the perceived lack of physical exertion and the difficulty in establishing clear rules for competition.
2. How likely is it that chess will be included in the Olympics?
A: The chances of chess becoming an Olympic sport depend on several factors, including FIDE's continued advocacy, support from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and growing public interest.
3. What would be the format of chess in the Olympics?
A: The specific format would be determined by FIDE and the IOC, but it likely involve individual and team competitions, with various time controls and formats.
4. Who are the leading supporters of chess in the Olympics?
A: Major proponents include FIDE, chess organizations worldwide, and notable chess players such as Magnus Carlsen, Viswanathan Anand, and D Gukesh.
5. What can be done to increase support for chess in the Olympics?
A: Promoting the sport at grassroots levels, raising awareness of its educational and cognitive benefits, and advocating with the IOC can all help build support for chess's inclusion in the Games.
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