[andrewzah]

There is a considerable gulf between "someone who competed when they were young" and a world champion. Looking at their rankings, Kamath is/was about 2055 and Anand is about -2753-. He is among a handful of players who have managed to peak above 2800. [0]

As to why people cheat, there are a plethora of reasons. Running a brokerage or hedgefund is whatever, nothing really special to anyone. Being able to defeat someone like Anand -is- an incredible feat to have under one's belt. The thrill of dominating and/or getting key victories in a competitive sport far surpasses things like running a successful business or being rich. Money can't get you that. Business acumen can't get you that. Only your personal knowledge and skill can get you that.

[0]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_chess_players_by_peak_...