It's also a 100+ year old tradition that even many of the "chess insiders" cherish and respect. For example Aronian (world #2) said in an interview that he thi

It's also a 100+ year old tradition that even many of the "chess insiders" cherish and respect. For example Aronian (world #2) said in an interview that he thinks Anand deserves to be considered the strongest player because he's defended the title so many times.