Garry Kasparov

Garry Kasparov is a Russian chess grandmaster, born on April 13, 1963, in Baku, Azerbaijan. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time. Kasparov began his professional career with the Soviet Union's chess federation before becoming the World Chess Champion in 1985, where he held the title until 2000.

Kasparov is known for his aggressive playing style, deep theoretical knowledge, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards, including 15 consecutive professional tournament victories, and holds multiple records, such as the highest Elo rating in chess history.

Off the board, Kasparov is also recognized for his political activism and influence, making significant contributions to democratic movements and inspiring millions worldwide.

Soviet Union Chess Federation

• Youth and Early Career: Kasparov was born and raised in Baku and joined the Soviet Union's chess federation as a child. He became a grandmaster at the age of 17.

World Chess Champion

• Early Success: Kasparov became the World Chess Champion in 1985. He held the title until 2000, creating a record for the longest reign as World Champion.

Professional Chess Association

• Founding the PCA: In 1993, Kasparov and Nigel Short split from FIDE to establish the Professional Chess Association (PCA). Kasparov won the PCA World Chess Championship in the same year.

Retirement and Post-Chess Career

• Retirement: Kasparov retired from professional chess in 2005 but continues to participate in exhibition matches and chess-related activities.
• Political Activism: Following his retirement, Kasparov focused on political activism, advocating for human rights and democracy in Russia.

Olympiad and Team Championships

• Debut: Made his debut for the Soviet Union team in 1980.

Achievements:

• Olympiad Gold Medals: Winner in 1980, 1982, 1986, 1988, 1990, and 1992.
• European Team Championships: Winner in 1980, 1983, and 1989.
• World Team Championships: Winner in 1985 and 1989. Kasparov is one of the most successful players in international team competitions.

• Play Style: Primarily an aggressive player, but also excels in defensive play.
• Skills: Known for his deep theoretical knowledge, ability to calculate complex positions, and versatility. Kasparov is celebrated for his imaginative play and adaptability.

• Family: Kasparov has two children. He is married to Daria Tarasova.
• Activism: Kasparov is involved in various political movements and has been a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin's government.

• Garry Kasparov is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his impact on the game of chess, his work ethic, determination, and longevity in professional chess. His influence extends beyond the chess board, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Highest Elo Rating in Chess History:

• 2851 Elo rating

Most Consecutive Professional Tournament Victories:

• 15 consecutive victories

Longest Reign as World Chess Champion:

• 15 years

Books

• Kasparov, G. (2007) How Life Imitates Chess. London: Bloomsbury Publishing.
• Kasparov, G. (2010) Garry Kasparov on Modern Chess. London: Everyman Chess.

Websites

• FIDE: Information about Garry Kasparov’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fide.com
• ChessBase: Details about Kasparov’s career and games. Available at: https://www.chessbase.com

Articles

• Chess.com: Garry Kasparov: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.chess.com/article/view/garry-kasparov
• The Guardian: Garry Kasparov’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/garrykasparov

Interviews and Documentaries

• Kasparov vs. Karpov (2009): Directed by Vikram Jayanti. This documentary provides a detailed look at Kasparov’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ChessBase Interviews: Various interviews and features on Garry Kasparov, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.chessbase.com