Sachin Tendulkar has been heavily criticized for his recent performance but finally he found some support in the form of Viswanathan Anand. The five-time world champion urged Sachin to continue playing as long as he wanted, says a report in The Hindu.
“Criticism is fine, but if you still like playing it’s crazy to stop for no reason. In sport there is no question that it favours young people in general. But I really want to play chess still,” he said.
“I am lucky to have the chance to play and I intend to use it. I imagine the same for him,” he added.
On the age factor, Anand said, “The first question people ask is when are you going to retire? And if both of you want to retire, can one of you retire... It’s a little bit funny. In my case, I don’t think there is any fundamental change from December 10, 2009 to December 11, 2010. But it seems to affect the way people see you.”
Meanwhile, The Indian Express report says that Anand clubbed Tendulkar, former India captain Sourav Ganguly, tennis veteran Leander Paes as three top icons he had seen.
"In general I have seen a lot of Leander Paes... I might have started a few years earlier but Sachin and I have been there for quite a long time. Sourav was there for quite a good part there as well. I think most of our careers we share together," he said.
Anand said that he would not want to play beyond 50. “I think 50 is kind of a barrier. For me, I don't expect to be playing top chess when I am 60. But still there are a few years left. In the meantime, I want to enjoy as much as possible, “ he said.