Five players acknowledged by Tamil Nadu Government

Outstanding Sports Person Award winners (L to R) - Laxman, Adhiban, Sethuraman, Gukesh and Nandhidhaa

On Monday 8th February, five of India's top players from Tamil Nadu were invited to Tamil Nadu Secretariat to be feted by the Chief Minister's State Sports Award in Outstanding Sportspersons category. We reached out to everyone to get their thoughts on winning such a prestigious award.

Adhiban with his Outstanding Sportspersons award and certificate in front of his trophy cabinet

India no.4 GM Adhiban B shared, "Yeah it was a great feeling! Glad to be honoured with such an award!!"

Adhiban's memento and certificate

Sethuraman receives Outstanding Sportspersons award from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami

India no.6 GM Sethuraman S P tweeted, "Thanks to the honourable Chief Minister of TamilNadu Shri Edappadi K Palaniswami for bestowing me the Outstanding sportsperson award (Chess)."

Gukesh receives his Outstanding Sportspersons award

India's youngest GM D Gukesh shared, "Thanks. Happy and feels good when our efforts are getting recognised which motivates me and encourages to move to next level by putting more hardwork now."

Laxman receives his Outstanding Sportspersons award 2010-11

GM Laxman R R representing Integral Coach Factory of Indian Railways exclaimed, "I feel elated and glorious to receive the award from the respected and honourable Chief Minister Of Tamil Nadu."

P.V. Nandhidhaa receives her Outstanding Sportspersons award - Women

WGM P V Nandhidhaa shared, "I feel very happy to receive this honour from the state government. It is the need of the hour to get such positive vibes during these tiring covid pandemic when every sportsperson is facing so many challenges. I feel very motivated to perform better in upcoming tournaments."

Chess players are also well aware of the Covid protocols

Statemates who have represented India numerous times are also very good friends