Shakhriyar Mamedyarov

Shakhriyar Mamedyarov is an Azerbaijani chess Grandmaster, born on April 12, 1985, in Sumqayit, Azerbaijan. He is widely regarded as one of the top chess players in the world. Mamedyarov began his professional career in chess at a young age and quickly rose to prominence, winning multiple titles, including the World Junior Chess Championship twice.

Mamedyarov is known for his aggressive style of play, tactical acumen, and ability to create complex positions. He has won numerous individual awards and holds multiple records, such as being a three-time champion of the super tournament in Biel, Switzerland.

Off the board, Mamedyarov is also recognized for his contributions to promoting chess in Azerbaijan and globally.

Early Career

• Mamedyarov was born and raised in Sumqayit and learned to play chess at a young age. He made his mark on the international chess scene by winning the World Junior Chess Championship in 2003 and 2005.

Grandmaster Title

• Mamedyarov earned the title of Grandmaster in 2002. Since then, he has competed in numerous international tournaments, consistently ranking among the top players. He won the super tournament in Biel three times, in 2007, 2008, and 2018.

Azerbaijan National Team

• As a key member of the Azerbaijan national team, Mamedyarov has helped the team secure many victories, including the European Team Chess Championship in 2009, 2013, and 2017.

World Chess Championship

• Mamedyarov has competed in the Candidates Tournament for the World Chess Championship multiple times, with his best performance in 2018, where he finished in second place.

Azerbaijan National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for the Azerbaijan National Team in 2003.

Achievements:

• European Team Chess Championship: Winner in 2009, 2013, and 2017.
• World Team Chess Championship: Winner in 2009.
• Mamedyarov is one of Azerbaijan's top players and has represented his country in multiple Chess Olympiads.

• Style: Primarily an aggressive player known for his tactical acumen and ability to create complex positions.
• Skills: Known for his fearlessness in the face of complications, creative attacking style, and deep understanding of the game's intricacies.

• Family: Mamedyarov is married to WGM Khayala Abdulla. His sister, Zeinab Mamedyarova, is also a strong chess player.
• Chess Promotion: Mamedyarov is active in promoting chess in Azerbaijan and internationally, participating in various chess-related events and activities.

• Shakhriyar Mamedyarov is celebrated not only for his exceptional talent and numerous achievements but also for his unique, aggressive style that has entertained chess fans worldwide. His contributions extend beyond the chessboard, inspiring many young players in Azerbaijan and elsewhere.

World Junior Chess Championship:

• Winner in 2003 and 2005

Super Tournament in Biel:

• Champion in 2007, 2008, and 2018

European Team Chess Championship:

• Winner in 2009, 2013, and 2017 with the Azerbaijan National Team

FIDE World Rapid Championship:

• Third place in 2013

Books

• Kasparov, G. (2014) Garry Kasparov on Modern Chess, Part 4: Kasparov vs Karpov 1988-2009. London: Everyman Chess.
• Agdestein, S. (2014) Wonderboy Magnus Carlsen: How Magnus Carlsen Became the Youngest Grandmaster in the World. Alkmaar: New In Chess.

Websites

• FIDE: Information about Shakhriyar Mamedyarov’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fide.com
• Chess.com: Details about Mamedyarov’s games and notable performances. Available at: https://www.chess.com
• ChessBase: News and updates on Mamedyarov’s performance and records. Available at: https://www.chessbase.com

Articles

• Chess24: Shakhriyar Mamedyarov: Career highlights and notable games. Available at: https://www.chess24.com
• The Guardian: Shakhriyar Mamedyarov's career and achievements. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/shakhriyarmamedyarov

Interviews and Documentaries

• Interviews and features on Shakhriyar Mamedyarov, covering different aspects of his career, are available on various chess-related websites and YouTube channels.