‘Even the Indian players are arrogant’: Hikaru Nakamura on the reality of elite chess

Renowned American chess grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura has declared that every top chess player on the circuit possesses an inflated ego. He stated that a degree of arrogance and passion is crucial for excelling in the sport, and dismissing this fact would be self-deception. Even Indian players, often seen as composed, focused, and respectful, are not immune to this trait, Nakamura asserted on his YouTube channel.

Nakamura argued that while some players manage to conceal their emotions better than others, the presence of arrogance and ego remains undeniable. He emphasized that there isn't a single top player who doesn't fit this description. Even the usually level-headed American GM Wesley So, known for his amiable demeanor, isn't exempt from this reality.

However, Nakamura provided a more nuanced perspective on So's temperament. He suggested that while So may appear calmer nowadays, his competitive drive and eagerness to secure financial advantages likely surpass his willingness to take substantial risks to win games.

Nakamura also addressed the case of Viswanathan Anand, the five-time World Champion and celebrated Chennai-based grandmaster. Despite Anand's reputation for maintaining composure and grace during matches, Nakamura cited a book that alleged Anand once threw a chair in frustration after a loss. Nakamura dismissed this incident as "psychotic behavior," emphasizing that even Anand's actions reveal his profound passion, ego, and insatiable desire to emerge victorious.

He concluded by reiterating that this pervasive ego-driven mindset is not unique to Anand but is a universal characteristic among elite chess players.