I've never been much of a computer guy at least in terms of playing with computers. Actually until I was about 11 I didn't use a computer for preparing for games at all. Now, obviously, the computer is an important tool for me preparing for my games. I analyze when I'm on the computer, either my games or my opponents. But mostly my own.

I can’t count the times I have lagged seemingly hopelessly far behind, and nobody except myself thinks I can win. But I have pulled myself in from desperate [situations]. When you are behind there are two strategies - counter-attack or all men to the defences. I’m good at finding the right balance between those.

Chess only appeals to quite a small minority. It does not have the cachet of a mainstream popular sport.

I think with chess as with everything, marketing is the main issue.

I don't really watch too many movies. I don't have the patience usually to watch one, one and a half or two hours in a row.

When you have fun then you're more interested in learning.

People ask what my goal is. I don't have a goal.