Vladimir Kramnik

Vladimir Kramnik is a Russian professional chess player, born on June 25, 1975, in Tuapse, Russia. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time. Kramnik began his professional career with the Russian chess federation before moving to the international stage in the early 90s, where he won multiple titles, including the World Chess Championship in 2000.

Kramnik is known for his deep strategic understanding, excellent endgame technique, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards, including the Chess Oscar, and holds multiple records, such as being one of the few players to have defeated Garry Kasparov in a World Chess Championship match.

Off the board, Kramnik is also recognized for his contributions to chess education, developing a chess curriculum for schools worldwide.

Russian Chess Federation

• Youth and Early Career: Kramnik was born and raised in Tuapse and moved to Moscow as a child to join the Russian Chess Federation's youth academy. He made his first international appearance in 1992.

International Career

• Early Success: Kramnik gained international recognition in the mid-90s. He secured his place among the world's best players when he won the World Chess Championship in 2000, defeating Garry Kasparov.

Post-World Championship Career

• Continued Success: After his World Championship win, Kramnik continued to perform at a high level, winning several major tournaments and maintaining his place among the world's top players. He retired from professional chess in 2019.

Russian National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for the Russian National Team in 1992.

Achievements:

• World Chess Championship: Winner in 2000 and 2006.
• Kramnik is one of the few players to have defeated Garry Kasparov in a World Chess Championship match.

• Style: Known for his deep strategic understanding and excellent endgame technique. Kramnik is celebrated for his versatility and ability to adapt to his opponent's style.

• Family: Kramnik has two children. He is married to French journalist Marie-Laure Germon.
• Education: Kramnik is involved in various educational activities and has developed a chess curriculum for schools worldwide.

• Vladimir Kramnik is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his contribution to chess education. His impact on the game and his status as an icon extend beyond the chessboard, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

World Chess Championship:

• Winner in 2000 and 2006

Chess Oscar:

• Winner in 2000 and 2006

Other Major Tournaments:

• Winner of numerous major tournaments, including Dortmund, Tal Memorial, and London Chess Classic

Books

• Kramnik, V. (2000) My Life and Games. London: Everyman Chess.
• Kasparov, G. (2003) My Great Predecessors: Part V. London: Everyman Chess.

Websites

• FIDE: Information about Vladimir Kramnik’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fide.com
• Chess.com: Details about Kramnik’s career and games. Available at: https://www.chess.com

Articles

• ChessBase: Vladimir Kramnik: Career in numbers. Available at: https://en.chessbase.com
• The Guardian: Vladimir Kramnik’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/vladimir-kramnik

Interviews and Documentaries

• Kramnik (2018): Directed by Ilya Merenzon. This documentary provides a detailed look at Kramnik’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• Chess.com Interviews: Various interviews and features on Vladimir Kramnik, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.chess.com