In an exclusive, wide-ranging interview with Float Chess, 20-year-old superstar R Praggnanandhaa opened up about his preparation routines, mental fortitude, and his ultimate dream of becoming the undisputed World Chess Champion.
\nReflecting on his historic Norway Chess title, Pragg credited his longtime coach, Grandmaster RB Ramesh, for cultivating emotional balance under intense competitive pressure: 'Coach Ramesh always taught me that a loss is simply data, not a definition of who you are. When you eliminate the fear of losing, you calculate much deeper and play with true freedom.'
\nPraggnanandhaa also shared rare insights into his daily training routine, which combines 6-8 hours of computer opening analysis and endgame study with swimming, yoga, and meditation to maintain peak physical endurance.
\nHe spoke warmly of his sister Vaishali's Candidates triumph: 'Watching Vaishali win the Candidates was even more emotional than winning my own games. We analyze together, review openings together, and push each other every single day.'
\nLooking ahead, Pragg made his ambitions crystal clear: 'My focus is on continuous improvement. The world championship is the summit, and every tournament I play is a step toward that peak.'
⚡ Key Takeaways
- Pragg reveals his training philosophy with mentor GM RB Ramesh.
- Highlights the vital role of physical fitness, yoga, and mental balance in modern chess.
- Discusses sibling collaboration with Vaishali following her Candidates victory.