Wesley So

Wesley So is a Filipino-American chess grandmaster, born on October 9, 1993, in Bacoor, Philippines. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time. So began his professional career in the Philippines before moving to the United States in 2012, where he has won multiple titles, including the U.S. Chess Championship and the World Fischer Random Chess Championship.

So is known for his incredible focus, strategic understanding, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards, including the Chess Grandmaster title, and holds multiple records, such as being the youngest player to reach an Elo rating of 2600.

Off the board, So is also recognized for his humble demeanor and philanthropy, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

Philippines Chess Federation

• Youth and Early Career: So was born and raised in the Philippines and began his chess career as a child prodigy. He made his grandmaster debut for the Philippines Chess Federation in 2008.

United States Chess Federation

• Early Success: So transferred to the United States Chess Federation in 2014. Under the guidance of the federation, he developed into one of the world's best players, winning the U.S. Chess Championship and the World Fischer Random Chess Championship.

World Chess Championship

• Top Tier Performance: So has consistently been a top contender at the World Chess Championship, showcasing his skill against the world's best players.

Philippines National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for the Philippines in 2006 at the 37th Chess Olympiad.

United States National Team

• Gold Medal: Won team and individual gold at the 42nd Chess Olympiad in 2016, representing the United States.
• So is a consistent top performer for the United States in international competitions.

• Style: Primarily known for his deep strategic understanding and calculation abilities.
• Skills: Known for his accuracy, endgame prowess, and ability to handle complex positions. So is celebrated for his versatility and defensive solidity.

• Family: So has a sister. He is married to Lotis Key, a former actress and his current manager.
• Philanthropy: So is involved in various charitable activities and has donated significant sums to organizations promoting chess education and sportsmanship.

• Wesley So is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his discipline, determination, and longevity in professional chess. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the board, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Youngest Player to Reach an Elo Rating of 2600:

• Achieved this feat at the age of 14

Winner of the U.S. Chess Championship:

• Winner in 2017, 2020

Winner of the World Fischer Random Chess Championship:

• Winner in 2019

Gold Medalist at the Chess Olympiad:

• Won team and individual gold in 2016

Books

• Donaldson, J. (2017) The Life and Games of Wesley So. California: Ishi Press.

Websites

• FIDE: Information about Wesley So’s international career and achievements. Available at: https://www.fide.com
• US Chess Federation: Details about So’s career in the United States. Available at: https://new.uschess.org

Articles

• Chess.com: Wesley So: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.chess.com/players/wesley-so
• The Guardian: Wesley So’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/wesley-so

Interviews and Documentaries

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