12 May,2010 11:31 AM IST | | Agencies
World chess champion Vishwanathan Anand's father Tuesday said it was his son's determination that helped him retain the world title in Sofia, Bulgaria.
"He was quiet determined to win this time and his determination played a key role. It is a great win. He had prepared hard for the last two-three months. The preparations were different this time, because he was playing against Veselin Topalov," Anand's father R. Vishwanathan said.
"It was all not easy for him to reach Sofia. All flights were cancelled and the road journey to Bulgaria was not easy. But Anand is known for his determination. He was not bothered about all these things," he added.
Anand's wife Aruna, who is also his manager, termed the victory as emphatic.
"It was an emphatic win. The preparations were at a high level. It was a tense match. He didn't have a good start but then played extremely well. To win the title was really nice," she said.
All India Chess Federation (AICF) president N. Srinivasan said: "The champions showed his class. We are proud of his resilience and victory."
Anand defeated Topalov in the 12th game of the 12-round match to retain his title. He won despite playing with black in the 12th and final game of the clash. Anand won in 56 moves.
This is Anand's fourth World Chess title. He had previously won the title in 2000, 2007 and 2008.
