Wesley: So much for ball games

MANILA, Philippines — Wesley So, a Philippine-born chess player now representing the United States, believes that Filipinos have a stronger chance in excelling in this mind game than in ball games.

“Filipinos should play chess. Our natural ability is not for foreign ball sports,” said the 27-year-old grandmaster in his message during the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines’ online drafting last Sunday.

So had actually walked the talk after he ruled the world champion in Fischer Random last year, claimed his second US crown last October and slew reigning world standard, rapid and blitz champion Magnus Carlsen a month ago.

“Our natural, God given ability is in the way we use our brains. Who is more resourceful, creative, innovative and imaginative than the Filipinos,” said So.