Famous Russian Chess Players

Alexander Alekhine was a Russian and French chess player who became the fourth World Chess Champion after defeating José Raúl Capablanca in 1927. Known for his fierce attacking style and strong positional play, Alekhine won numerous tournaments in the 1920s and dominated tournament play in the early 1930s. He successfully defended his title against Efim Bogoljubov in 1929 and 1934, and later regained it in a rematch against Max Euwe in 1937. Alekhine's career was marked by innovative contributions to chess theory, particularly in the realm of chess openings.

Boris Vasilievich Spassky is a renowned Russian chess grandmaster who held the title of World Chess Champion from 1969 to 1972. He played in three world championship matches, winning the title in 1969 after defeating Tigran Petrosian and losing to Bobby Fischer in 1972. Spassky won the Soviet Chess Championship twice outright and was a candidate for the World Chess Championship seven times. He emigrated to France in 1976 before returning to Russia in 2012, continuing to compete in tournaments.

Tigran Petrosian was a highly accomplished Soviet-Armenian chess grandmaster known for his defensive playing style. He earned the title of World Chess Champion from 1963 to 1969 and was nicknamed "Iron Tigran" for his near-impenetrable defense. Petrosian popularized chess in Armenia and was a candidate for the World Chess Championship on eight occasions. He won the World Championship in 1963, successfully defended it in 1966, and was a key figure in Soviet chess, winning the Soviet Championship four times.

Ian Nepomniachtchi is a highly accomplished Russian chess grandmaster with numerous tournament victories to his name. He has won prestigious events such as the Russian Superfinal, European Individual titles, Tal Memorial, and Aeroflot Open. Nepomniachtchi has also been a key member of the Russian national team, contributing to victories in World Team Chess Championships and European Team Chess Championships. He has consistently performed well in rapid and blitz chess, earning high rankings globally and winning medals in various championships. Additionally, Nepomniachtchi has qualified for multiple Candidates Tournaments and has competed in the World Chess Championship, showcasing his exceptional skills and competitiveness in the world of chess.

Garry Kasparov is a renowned Russian chess grandmaster, former World Chess Champion, political activist, and writer. He achieved a peak FIDE rating of 2851 in 1999, held the world no. 1 ranking for a record 255 months, and set records for consecutive tournament victories and Chess Oscars. Kasparov became the youngest undisputed world champion in 1985, defended his title against Anatoly Karpov, and later faced off against the IBM supercomputer Deep Blue. He has since focused on writing, politics, and human rights advocacy, founding the Renew Democracy Initiative in 2017.

Anatoly Yevgenyevich Karpov is a renowned Russian and former Soviet chess grandmaster, World Chess Champion, and politician. He achieved significant success in chess, including being the 12th World Chess Champion, a three-time FIDE World Champion, twice World Chess champion with the USSR team, and a six-time winner of Chess Olympiads. Karpov has won numerous awards, including nine Chess Oscars. With over 160 first-place finishes, he had a peak Elo rating of 2780 and held the world number one ranking for 102 months, showcasing his exceptional talent and dominance in the chess world. Additionally, Karpov is actively involved in Russian politics, serving as an elected Member of the State Duma and holding key positions related to ecological safety and environmental protection.

Vasily Vasilyevich Smyslov was a prominent Soviet and Russian chess grandmaster, known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the world of chess. He held the title of World Chess Champion from 1957 to 1958 and was a Candidate for the World Chess Championship on multiple occasions. Smyslov's success extended beyond individual competitions, as evidenced by his record-breaking 17 Chess Olympiad medals. Despite challenges like failing eyesight, he continued to excel in competitive chess and remained active in chess composition until his passing in 2010. His talents were not limited to chess, as he was also recognized for his impressive baritone singing abilities.

Vladimir Kramnik is a renowned Russian chess grandmaster who made his mark by becoming the Classical World Chess Champion in 2000 after defeating Garry Kasparov. He successfully defended his title in 2004 and went on to unify the FIDE and Classical titles by defeating Veselin Topalov in 2006. Despite losing the title in 2007 to Viswanathan Anand, Kramnik remained a top player with a peak rating of 2817 in 2016. He retired in 2019 to focus on chess projects for children and education.

Alexandra Kosteniuk is a renowned chess grandmaster known for her exceptional skills and numerous accomplishments in the world of chess. She has held prestigious titles such as Women's World Chess Champion and Women's World Rapid Chess Champion. With victories in various championships and tournaments, she has solidified her reputation as a formidable force in the chess world. Despite challenges, including a change in federations, Kosteniuk continues to inspire and impress with her strategic gameplay and dedication to the game.

Alexander Grischuk is a prominent Russian chess grandmaster known for his impressive achievements in the chess world. He has clinched the Russian championship title in 2009 and secured victory as the world blitz chess champion three times. Grischuk has participated in several high-stakes tournaments, including five Candidates Tournaments and the FIDE World Championship. His notable successes include multiple team gold, silver, and bronze medals in Chess Olympiads and the World Team Chess Championship, highlighting his exceptional skill and contribution to the chess community.

Lyudmila Rudenko was a prominent Soviet chess player who achieved significant milestones in her career. She became the second women's world chess champion in 1950 and held the title until 1953. Rudenko was awarded the FIDE titles of International Master (IM), Woman International Master (WIM), and Woman Grandmaster (WGM). She was the first woman to receive the International Master title in 1950. Additionally, Rudenko was the USSR women's champion in 1952, showcasing her exceptional skill and dominance in the world of chess.

Viktor Korchnoi was a prominent Soviet and Swiss chess grandmaster and writer known for his exceptional skill and competitive spirit. Despite never becoming World Chess Champion, he was a formidable player, participating in multiple Candidates cycles and World Championship matches against Anatoly Karpov. Korchnoi's career was marked by numerous successes, including winning the USSR Chess Championship four times and being a key member of winning Soviet teams in European championships and Chess Olympiads. He continued to play competitively into his old age, achieving notable accomplishments such as winning the 2006 World Senior Chess Championship.

Andrey Evgenyevich Esipenko is a Russian chess grandmaster known for his outstanding achievements in the chess world. He has claimed victory in prestigious chess championships, including the European U10 Chess Championship in 2012, as well as the European U16 and World U16 Chess Championship in 2017. Esipenko has demonstrated his dedication to the game and his strong moral compass by joining a group of Russian elite chess players in signing an open letter to the Russian president, condemning the 2022 invasion of Ukraine and showing support for the Ukrainian people.

Vladislav Mikhailovich Artemiev is a renowned Russian chess grandmaster known for his exceptional skills and strategic gameplay. Awarded the title of Grandmaster in 2014, he has achieved significant success in various international chess tournaments. Artemiev's notable accomplishments include winning the 2019 European Chess Championship and securing individual and team gold medals at the World Team Chess Championship in the same year. He has also competed in multiple Chess World Cups, demonstrating his resilience and talent on the global chess stage.

Alla Kushnir was a prominent Soviet-born Israeli chess player known for her exceptional skills and achievements in the world of chess. She earned the prestigious FIDE titles of Woman International Master (WIM) in 1962 and Woman Grandmaster (WGM) in 1976, showcasing her talent and dedication to the game. In recognition of her significant contributions to the sport, she was honored posthumously by being inducted into the World Chess Hall of Fame in 2017, solidifying her legacy as a respected figure in the chess community.

Alexander Kotov was a Soviet chess grandmaster, renowned for his achievements both as a player and an author. He was a Soviet chess champion and a two-time world title Candidate. Kotov also held high posts in the Soviet Chess Federation and was a prolific writer on chess during the Cold War era. His extensive contributions to the field of chess literature cemented his reputation as one of the all-time greats in the realm of chess.

Polina Shuvalova is a highly accomplished Russian chess player with notable achievements in both national and international competitions. She holds the FIDE titles of International Master and Woman Grandmaster and has won multiple prestigious titles, including the World Girls U-20 Champion and the World Girl's U18 Champion. Shuvalova has represented Russia in various youth and women's championships, earning several medals. She continues to excel in the chess world, showcasing her talent and determination through consistent success in top-level tournaments.

Nikita Vitiugov is a Russian chess grandmaster who now represents England due to the Russia-Ukraine war. He has been a key player in the chess world, contributing to Russia's victories in the World Team Chess Championship in 2009 and 2013. Vitiugov has showcased his skills by winning prestigious tournaments such as the Gibraltar Masters in 2013 and the Grenke Open in 2017. His remarkable career includes clinching the title at the highly competitive 2021 Russian Chess Championship, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier chess player on the international stage.

Sergey Karjakin is a Russian chess grandmaster known for his exceptional talent and achievements in the world of chess. He made history as the world's youngest grandmaster at the age of 12 years and 7 months. Throughout his career, Karjakin has won numerous championships, including the World Rapid Chess Championship in 2012, the Chess World Cup in 2015, and the World Blitz Chess Championship in 2016. Despite facing controversies related to his public stance on political issues, his contributions to the chess world remain significant.

Mikhail Chigorin was a prominent Russian chess player known for his Romantic style of play. Despite losing two World Championship matches against Wilhelm Steinitz, he left a lasting impact on the chess world. Chigorin's influence extended to the "Soviet chess school," shaping the strategic and tactical approaches of players in the 20th century. His legacy as the last great Romantic chess player has inspired generations of chess enthusiasts and professionals, cementing his place in the history of the game.

Mikhail Botvinnik was a Soviet and Russian chess grandmaster renowned for his strategic prowess and analytical approach to the game. Over his career, he held five world titles in three different reigns, establishing himself as a dominant force in the chess world. In addition to his chess achievements, Botvinnik was a pioneer in computer chess and held a mathematics degree. He played a key role in organizing the World Chess Championship system post-World War II and mentored future World Champions, solidifying his legacy as a patriarch of the Soviet chess school.

Ossip Bernstein was a prominent French chess player and successful businessman. He was awarded the prestigious title of International Grandmaster by FIDE in 1950, recognizing his exceptional skill and contributions to the game of chess. Bernstein's professional life was characterized by his dedication to both chess and business, where he achieved notable success in both fields. His legacy as a skilled chess player and astute businessman continues to be remembered and respected in the chess community and beyond.

Yuri Lvovich Averbakh was a prominent Russian chess grandmaster and author known for his contributions to the game. He served as the chairman of the USSR Chess Federation from 1973 to 1978, demonstrating strong leadership in the chess community. Averbakh achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first centenarian FIDE Grandmaster, highlighting his exceptional skill and dedication to chess. Even as his eyesight and hearing declined with age, he remained actively involved in chess-related activities, showcasing his enduring passion for the game.

Alexander Khalifman is a prominent Russian chess player and writer. He achieved the title of Grandmaster in 1990 and went on to become the FIDE World Chess Champion in 1999. Throughout his career, Khalifman has demonstrated exceptional strategic skills and profound understanding of the game. He is highly respected in the chess community for his contributions as a player and as an author. Khalifman's legacy is defined by his significant achievements in the world of chess and his lasting impact on the sport.

Peter Svidler is a highly accomplished Russian chess grandmaster and commentator, known for his exceptional skills and strategic prowess in the game. Holding the prestigious title of eight-time Russian Chess Champion, Svidler has represented Russia in numerous international competitions, including World Championships and Candidates Tournaments. With notable achievements such as winning the Chess World Cup in 2011 and securing victories in various prestigious tournaments, Svidler is regarded as a prominent figure in the world of professional chess, respected for his contributions both on and off the board.

Valentina Evgenyevna Gunina is a highly accomplished Russian chess grandmaster known for her exceptional skills and numerous achievements in the world of chess. She has secured prestigious titles such as the World Blitz Chess Champion and has been victorious in various championships, including the Women's European Individual Chess Championship and the Russian Women's Championship multiple times. Gunina has also been an integral part of successful Russian chess teams in various international competitions, showcasing her talent and dedication to the game.

Pavel Tregubov is a distinguished Russian-born chess player who now represents France. Awarded the title of Grandmaster by FIDE in 1994, he achieved European champion status in 2000. Tregubov plays a pivotal role in the chess world as one of the founders of the Association of Chess Professionals (ACP). Currently serving as the ACP Tour director, he has previously held positions as president, treasurer, and board director within the organization. His professional contributions have significantly impacted the global chess community.

Natalia Andreevna Pogonina is a highly accomplished Russian chess player, holding the FIDE title of Woman Grandmaster (WGM). Known for her exceptional skills, Pogonina was the runner-up of the Women's World Chess Championship in 2015. She has claimed victory as the Russian Women's Champion twice, in 2012 and 2018. Pogonina has been an integral part of the successful Russian Women's Chess Olympiad teams in 2012 and 2014, as well as the 2011 Women's European Team Chess Championship. Her professional career showcases a remarkable dedication to the game and numerous achievements at the highest levels of competition.

Kirill Alekseenko is a Russian-born chess grandmaster known for his strategic gameplay and tactical prowess. He has represented Austria in various international chess competitions, showcasing his skills on the global stage. With a strong foundation in chess theory and a deep understanding of the game, Alekseenko has achieved significant success in his professional career. His dedication to continuous improvement and his ability to adapt to different playing styles make him a formidable opponent, respected by chess enthusiasts worldwide.

Alisa Mikhailovna Galliamova is a prominent Russian chess player with the FIDE titles of International Master and Woman Grandmaster. She has achieved notable success in the chess world, being a two-time runner-up at the Women's World Chess Championship and a three-time Russian women's champion. She has also represented both Russia and Ukraine in international competitions, contributing to gold medal-winning performances for both teams. Galliamova's skill and achievements have solidified her reputation as a respected and accomplished figure in the world of chess.

Vladimir Fedoseev is a prominent Russian chess grandmaster known for his strategic prowess. He represents Slovenia in international competitions and has participated in multiple Chess World Cups, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination. With a strong presence in the chess world, Fedoseev continues to impress fans and fellow players with his tactical acumen and competitive spirit. His contributions to the game have solidified his reputation as a top player in the global chess community.

Daniil Dmitrievich Dubov is a Russian chess grandmaster known for his exceptional skills in the game. He earned his Grandmaster title at a young age of 14, showcasing his talent and dedication. Dubov's impressive performance led him to victory at the 2018 World Rapid Chess Championship in Saint Petersburg, further solidifying his reputation in the chess world. He continues to be a prominent figure in professional chess, participating in various tournaments and competitions globally, and inspiring aspiring chess players with his strategic gameplay.

Aleksandra Yuryevna Goryachkina is a highly accomplished Russian chess player holding the title of Grandmaster (GM). She is ranked among the top women players globally, making history as the highest-rated Russian woman in chess. Goryachkina has claimed multiple Russian Women's Chess Champion titles and has excelled in prestigious tournaments, showcasing her exceptional skills and strategic prowess. Known for her remarkable performances and achievements, she continues to make a significant impact in the world of chess through her impressive gameplay and competitive spirit.

Rashid Nezhmetdinov was a prominent Soviet chess player and writer known for his exceptional tactical skills. Despite not achieving the Grandmaster title, he earned recognition for his strategic gameplay and the creation of numerous impressive games. Biographer Alex Pishkin likened Nezhmetdinov's style to celebrated players such as Chigorin, Réti, and Spielmann. Throughout his professional career, Nezhmetdinov left a lasting impact on the chess world with his innovative and brilliant approach to the game.

Mark Evgenievich Taimanov was a prominent figure in Soviet and Russian chess history, recognized as one of the world's top players for over two decades. Achieving the title of Grandmaster in 1952, he excelled in the realm of chess both as a player and an author. Taimanov claimed victory in the USSR Chess Championship in 1956 and competed as a World Championship Candidate twice. His contributions to chess are further immortalized through the naming of various opening variations in his honor. Additionally, he showcased his talent as a world-class concert pianist.

Tatiana Kosintseva is a highly accomplished Russian chess grandmaster, achieving the prestigious Grandmaster title in 2007. Known for her exceptional skills, she has claimed victory as a two-time European women's champion and a three-time Russian women's champion. Kosintseva has been a key player in several successful Russian chess teams, contributing to gold medal wins at the Women's Chess Olympiads in 2010 and 2012, as well as the Women's European Team Chess Championships in 2007, 2009, and 2011. Her professional career showcases her as a prominent figure in the world of chess, admired for her strategic prowess and competitive spirit.

Alexander Sergeyevich Morozevich is a prominent Russian chess player known for his aggressive and unconventional playing style. He achieved the title of Grandmaster in 1994 and has been a two-time World Championship candidate. Morozevich has won multiple Russian championships and represented Russia in numerous Chess Olympiads, earning various team and board medals. He has also secured victories in prestigious tournaments such as the Melody Amber and Biel multiple times. At his peak, Morozevich held the second rank in the world in July 2008.

Lev Abramovich Polugaevsky was a Soviet chess player renowned for his exceptional skills and strategic acumen. Awarded the title of International Grandmaster in 1962, he consistently competed for the World Championship. Regarded as one of the world's top players from the 1960s to the 1980s, Polugaevsky made significant contributions to chess theory and literature. His expertise in opening strategies continues to influence the game today. Polugaevsky's professional legacy is marked by his success on the global chess stage and his lasting impact on the sport.

Andor Lilienthal was a prominent Hungarian and Soviet chess player known for his remarkable career achievements. He competed against and defeated several world champions, leaving a strong legacy in the chess world. At the time of his passing, he held the distinction of being the oldest living grandmaster and the final survivor of the original group of grandmasters titled by FIDE in 1950. His contributions to the game of chess and his victories against renowned players solidified his reputation as a skilled and respected competitor.

Dmitry Andreikin is a prominent Russian chess grandmaster known for his remarkable achievements in the world of chess. He has secured impressive titles such as the World Junior Chess Champion in 2010 and has been crowned the Russian Chess Champion twice, in 2012 and 2018. Andreikin's successes also extend to winning the Tashkent leg of the FIDE Grand Prix in 2014–15 and finishing as a runner-up in both the Chess World Cup in 2013 and the Belgrade leg of the FIDE Grand Prix in 2022.

Evgeny Bareev is a prominent Russian-Canadian chess player, trainer, and writer. He achieved the FIDE Grandmaster title in 1989 and was ranked fourth in the world in 1992 and 2003. With an impressive Elo rating of 2739, he has made significant contributions to the chess world. Bareev's professional career highlights his expertise in the game, his success in international rankings, and his dedication to training aspiring chess players. Additionally, his accomplishments as a writer showcase his ability to share his knowledge and insights with others in the chess community.

David Ionovich Bronstein was a Soviet chess player awarded the title of International Grandmaster by FIDE in 1950. He narrowly missed becoming World Chess Champion in 1951. Bronstein was one of the world's strongest players from the mid-1940s into the mid-1970s, known for his creativity and tactical mastery. He was highly regarded by his peers as a creative genius. Additionally, Bronstein was a renowned chess writer, with his book Zurich International Chess Tournament 1953 being considered one of the greatest chess books ever written.

Nadezhda Kosintseva is a highly accomplished Russian chess grandmaster known for her exceptional skill and contributions to the sport. She has been a key member of the gold medal-winning Russian teams in various prestigious chess championships, including the Women's Chess Olympiads and the Women's European Team Chess Championships. Her strategic prowess and dedication to the game have earned her a reputation as a formidable competitor in the world of chess, inspiring aspiring players and garnering admiration from fans and peers alike.

Evgeny Sveshnikov was a renowned Russian chess player and writer known for his significant contributions to the game of chess. He gained international recognition for his development of the Sveshnikov Variation in the Sicilian Defence, a strategic opening that has been widely studied and utilized by chess players worldwide. Sveshnikov's expertise and innovative approach to the game led to him being awarded the prestigious title of Grandmaster by FIDE in 1977, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the chess community.

Salomon Mikhailovich Flohr was a prominent Czechoslovak and Soviet chess player and writer. He was awarded the title of International Grandmaster by FIDE in 1950. Flohr achieved significant success in chess tournaments before World War II, establishing himself as a top player and a strong contender for the World Championship. His patient and positional style of play set him apart, although he faced challenges adapting to the more aggressive tactics employed by the younger generation of Soviet players post-World War II.

Alexey Vasilyevich Sarana is a renowned chess grandmaster with dual Russian and Serbian nationality. In 2023, he achieved a significant milestone by winning the European Individual Chess Championship. Sarana made a bold decision in 2022 to leave Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, indicating his stance on the matter. His professional career is marked by strategic gameplay, tactical brilliance, and a strong competitive spirit that has earned him recognition and success in the world of chess.

Mark Dvoretsky was a renowned Russian chess trainer, writer, and International Master known for his immense contributions to chess theory and training. He authored numerous influential chess books and was widely respected for his analytical skills and ability to improve players' understanding and performance. Dvoretsky worked with several elite chess players, guiding them to success in high-level competitions. His training methods and insights have had a lasting impact on the chess world, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in modern chess training.

Ernesto Inarkiev is a prominent Russian chess grandmaster hailing from Kalmykia. He achieved the title of European champion in 2016 and has maintained a position among the top 100 FIDE-rated chess players globally since July 2005. In 2015, he contributed to the Moscow team's victory in the Russian championship for rapid chess. Inarkiev's professional career is marked by his exceptional skill and consistent presence among the elite players in the chess world, showcasing his talent and dedication to the game.

Nana Alexandria is a highly accomplished Georgian chess player known for her exceptional skills and achievements in the world of chess. She has won the Soviet women's championship three times and has competed as a challenger in two matches for the Women's World Chess Championship. With a successful professional career, Nana Alexandria has established herself as a prominent figure in the chess world, showcasing her strategic prowess and dedication to the game through her impressive tournament performances and achievements.

Anton Korobov is a highly accomplished Ukrainian chess player, recognized as a Grandmaster by FIDE in 2003. He has secured the prestigious title of Ukrainian champion four times. In 2012, he was hailed as the best male chess player in Ukraine. Korobov's professional career is marked by numerous achievements and accolades, showcasing his exceptional skills and strategic prowess in the world of chess. His dedication and success in the field have solidified his reputation as a formidable force in competitive chess circles.

Elisaveta Bykova was a prominent Soviet chess player, known for being a two-time Women's World Chess Champion. She achieved various prestigious titles in chess, such as Woman International Master, International Master, and Woman Grandmaster. Bykova's successful career included victories in multiple championships and tournaments. She made significant contributions to the chess community through her writings, promoting women's chess, organizing tournaments, and delivering lectures. By working as an engineer in a printing house and being an author and columnist on chess, Bykova left a lasting impact on the world of chess.

Semyon Zinovyevich Alapin was a multi-talented individual with a diverse professional background. He was renowned as a Russian chess player, known for his expertise in openings analysis and puzzle composition. In addition to his contributions to the chess world, Alapin pursued a career as a linguist, railway engineer, and grain commodities merchant. His versatility and intellect allowed him to excel in various fields, leaving a lasting impact on both the chess community and his other professional endeavors.

Veniamin Sozin, a Soviet chess master, writer, and theoretician, made significant contributions to the world of chess during his professional life. He gained recognition for developing the Sozin Attack in the Sicilian Defense, a popular and aggressive chess opening. Sozin's theoretical insights and strategic prowess elevated him to prominence in the chess community. His writings and teachings continue to influence aspiring chess players, establishing him as a respected figure in the history of chess theory and strategy.

Grigory Levenfish was a prominent Soviet chess player who achieved his peak competitive success in the 1920s and 1930s. He was crowned Soviet champion twice, in 1934 and 1937. Levenfish notably drew a match against the future world champion, Mikhail Botvinnik, in 1937. In 1950, he was recognized as one of the first Grandmasters by FIDE, marking a significant milestone in his career. Levenfish's professional life was characterized by his exceptional chess skills and contributions to the development of the game.

Olga Nikolayevna Rubtsova was a prominent Soviet chess player known for her exceptional skills in the game. She achieved significant success in her career and became the fourth women's world chess champion. Rubtsova's remarkable talent and strategic gameplay earned her recognition in the chess community. Her contributions to the world of chess were honored when she was inducted into the World Chess Hall of Fame in 2015, solidifying her legacy as one of the greats in the history of women's chess.

Maxim Matlakov is a distinguished Russian chess grandmaster known for his strategic prowess and achievements in the chess world. He secured victory in the European Individual Chess Championship in 2017, showcasing his exceptional skills. Notably, he provided valuable support to Peter Svidler in multiple Candidates Tournaments. Matlakov also demonstrated his principled stance by signing an open letter to Russian president Vladimir Putin, condemning the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine and standing in solidarity with the Ukrainian people.

Valentina Golubenko is a Russian-born chess player with the FIDE title of Woman Grandmaster (WGM). She was the world champion in the girls under 18 category in 2008. Golubenko is known for being the first and only world youth chess champion from Estonia. She initially played in Estonia but later moved to Croatia due to citizenship restrictions. She currently represents both Estonia and Croatia in international chess competitions, showcasing her skills and expertise in the game.

Alexander Evgenyevich Baburin is a prominent figure in the world of chess, known for his achievements as a Russian-Irish grandmaster based in Dublin, Ireland. He serves as the editor-in-chief of Chess Today, a widely circulated chess newspaper, while also excelling as a coach and author. Baburin's notable career highlights include becoming the Irish champion in 2008 and being the sole chess grandmaster in Ireland since 1996. He is highly respected for his strategic prowess, contributions to the Irish chess community, and impressive tournament victories.

Larissa Ilinichna Volpert was a prominent figure in Soviet chess, achieving the titles of Woman International Master in 1954 and Woman Grandmaster in 1978. She won the Soviet women's chess championship three times and represented her country in international matches. Alongside her success in chess, Volpert pursued a career in philology, earning a degree and teaching Russian philology at the University of Tartu. She conducted significant research on the works of Pushkin and Lermontov, particularly in relation to French literature. Volpert's contributions to both fields left a lasting impact on the world of chess and academia.

Valery Salov is a highly accomplished Russian chess grandmaster, known for his exceptional skills and strategic gameplay. He reached the pinnacle of his career in 1995 when he was ranked third in the world. Throughout his professional life, Salov has participated in numerous prestigious chess tournaments, showcasing his talent and dedication to the game. His strategic thinking and tactical prowess have earned him a strong reputation within the global chess community, solidifying his status as one of the top players of his time.

Sanan Sjugirov is a Russian chess grandmaster of Kalmyk origin who represents Hungary. He has achieved significant success in various chess championships, including winning the World Youth Chess Championships and the European Youth Chess Championships in multiple age categories. Sjugirov has competed in prestigious events like the FIDE World Cup and the Chess Olympiad, where he has faced and defeated strong opponents. He has also secured victories in several international tournaments, showcasing his skill and talent in the world of professional chess.

Miron Naumovich Sher was a Soviet-born American chess player who achieved the title of Grandmaster in 1992. He excelled in international tournaments during the Soviet era and later became a Russian citizen after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. In 1997, he emigrated to America and settled in Brooklyn, where he became a prominent scholastic chess coach. Sher played a key role in developing several top players, such as Fabiano Caruana and Robert Hess, and had coached students across Europe before immigrating.

Evgeny Yuryevich Tomashevsky is a prominent Russian chess Grandmaster known for his strategic and positional style of play. He has achieved significant success in various prestigious chess tournaments, including winning the Russian Chess Championship twice and the European Chess Championship once. Tomashevsky has also represented Russia in international competitions, contributing to the team's success. His notable victories and consistent performance in top-level chess events have earned him recognition and respect among the chess community, with his intellectual demeanor and distinctive appearance leading to the affectionate nickname "Professor" among his peers.

Maxim Rodshtein is an Israeli chess grandmaster who has participated in multiple FIDE World Cup tournaments over the years, including in 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2017. He has established himself as a formidable player in the international chess scene, showcasing his strategic and tactical skills on various platforms. Rodshtein's professional career is highlighted by his consistent presence in prestigious chess competitions, where he has demonstrated his dedication and expertise in the game, earning respect and recognition among his peers and fans worldwide.

Vladimir Malakhov is a renowned Russian chess grandmaster, known for his exceptional skills and strategic gameplay. He has achieved numerous successes in his professional career, including being a key member of the Russian team that secured the gold medal at the 2009 World Team Chess Championship. Malakhov's expertise and dedication to the game have earned him a reputation as a formidable opponent and a respected figure in the international chess community. His achievements continue to inspire aspiring chess players around the world.

Ekaterina Atalik is a Russian-Turkish chess player with the titles of International Master (IM) and Woman Grandmaster (WGM). She has achieved notable successes in various chess championships, including winning the European Youth Chess Championship in 1997 and the 7th European Women's Chess Championship in 2006. Atalik also claimed victory in the Turkish women's championship in 2008 and 2016. Her impressive performance continued with a first-place finish at the 15th Prague Open in 2016.

Evgeny Alekseev is a prominent Russian chess grandmaster known for his impressive achievements in various international chess championships. Throughout his career, he has participated in prestigious events such as the FIDE World Chess Championship and the FIDE World Cup, showcasing his exceptional skills and strategic prowess. Alekseev's list of accolades includes victories in the Russian Championship Superfinal, the Aeroflot Open, the Biel Chess Festival, and the Viktor Korchnoi Memorial, solidifying his reputation as a highly skilled and competitive player on the international chess scene.

Elena Zaiatz is a highly accomplished chess player holding the FIDE titles of International Master and Woman Grandmaster. She has represented both Belarus and Russia in international chess competitions, showcasing her exceptional skills on the chessboard. With a strong academic background, having graduated from the Belarusian State University, Elena has a successful career spanning several decades. She has participated in numerous Chess Olympiads and championships, achieving notable victories such as winning the Belarusian National Chess Championship and earning a bronze medal in the World U20 Chess Championship.

Evgeny Najer is a prominent Russian chess grandmaster, achieving the title of European champion in 2015. He is known for his strategic and tactical gameplay, contributing to his success in various tournaments. In addition to his individual accomplishments, Najer plays a key role as one of the coaches for the Russian women's national chess team. His expertise and experience in the game make him a valuable asset in guiding and mentoring aspiring chess players to reach their full potential in competitive chess.

Denis Khismatullin is a renowned Russian chess grandmaster hailing from Bashkiria. He achieved the prestigious title of grandmaster, making history as the first from his region. Khismatullin showcased his skills on a global scale by competing in the FIDE World Cup in both 2013 and 2015. His professional career is marked by strategic brilliance and a strong competitive spirit, earning him respect and recognition within the chess community. Khismatullin continues to inspire aspiring players and enthusiasts with his remarkable achievements and dedication to the game.

Dmitry Jakovenko is a highly accomplished Russian chess player with the prestigious title of Grandmaster awarded by FIDE in 2001. Throughout his successful career, he has achieved notable victories, including being crowned European champion in 2012. Jakovenko has been an integral member of the gold medal-winning Russian team at various prestigious events, such as the 2009 World Team Chess Championship and the European Team Chess Championships in 2007 and 2015. His exceptional skills and strategic prowess have solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the world of professional chess.

Alexey Sergeyevich Dreev is a prominent Russian chess player with a distinguished career. He achieved the prestigious title of Grandmaster from FIDE in 1989, showcasing his exceptional skills and strategic prowess in the game of chess. Throughout his professional life, Dreev has participated in numerous high-level chess tournaments and championships, earning recognition for his tactical abilities and competitive spirit. He is known for his strategic insights, deep understanding of the game, and consistent performance at the highest levels of international chess competitions.

Sergei Rublevsky is a distinguished Russian chess grandmaster, attaining the prestigious title in 1994. Known for his strategic prowess and tactical acumen, he has competed at the highest levels of international chess, achieving notable successes in various tournaments. With a strong foundation in the game, Rublevsky has consistently demonstrated his skill and expertise, earning respect within the global chess community. His dedication to the sport and strategic approach to gameplay have solidified his reputation as a formidable presence in the world of competitive chess.

Alexander Motylev is a distinguished Russian chess grandmaster known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the world of chess. He has secured prestigious titles such as the Russian champion in 2001 and the European champion in 2014, showcasing his remarkable talent and strategic prowess on the chessboard. Motylev's professional career has been highlighted by numerous victories and commendations, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the international chess community through his dedication, perseverance, and strategic brilliance.