Chess as a sport requires a ...

Chess as a sport requires a lot of mental stamina, and this is what that makes it different from a physical sport. Chess players have a unique ability of taking in a lot of information and remembering relevant bits. So, memory and mental stamina are the key attributes.
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 Viswanathan Anand

Quotes from the same author

When I was about six, I saw my elder siblings play chess and pestered my mother into teaching me. Very soon, I was beating everyone at home, and they thought it would be good to join a club. So my sister would take me to the Tal chess club on Thursdays and weekends.
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 Viswanathan Anand
Chess has given me a lot more than I could ask for. I have been able to feel special, travel the world and do what I truly enjoy. Moreover, chess players love being their own boss and hate having to wake up early!
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 Viswanathan Anand
There are two aspects to being competitive; one is to do with sports, and the other is about technical skills. Being able to recollect the moves and apply them when necessary is a critical aspect.
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 Viswanathan Anand
Being the undisputed world champion is a relief. We instituted a unified chess title, I am the absolute world champion.
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 Viswanathan Anand
I would prefer chess to become part of the Olympic Games. This would also lead to chess become more accepted as a sport in general.
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 Viswanathan Anand