Garry Kasparov, born on April 13, 1963, in Baku, Azerbaijan, is a Russian chess grandmaster, former World Chess Champion, writer, and political activist. Renowned for his aggressive playing style and deep understanding of the game, Kasparov dominated the chess world for two decades and is often regarded as one of the greatest chess players in history.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Garry Kimovich Kasparov (born Garik Kimovich Weinstein)
- Date of Birth: April 13, 1963
- Birthplace: Baku, Azerbaijan SSR, Soviet Union
- Nationality: Russian
- Education: Attended Azerbaijan University of Languages
- Family:
- Father: Kim Moiseyevich Weinstein
- Mother: Klara Shagenovna Kasparova
- Marital Status: Married to Daria Tarasova since 2005
- Children: Three – Polina, Vadim, and Aida
Chess Career Highlights
- Grandmaster Title: Achieved in 1980 at the age of 17
- World Chess Champion: Held the title from 1985 to 2000
- Notable Achievements:
- Youngest ever undisputed World Chess Champion at age 22 in 1985
- Held the No. 1 position in the world rankings for 255 months
- Achieved a peak FIDE rating of 2851 in 1999, the highest at that time
- Known for his matches against IBM’s Deep Blue, notably losing in 1997
Career Statistics
- Total Games Played: Over 2,500
- Win Percentage: Approximately 70%
- Draw Percentage: Around 20%
- Loss Percentage: Approximately 10%
- Peak FIDE Rating: 2851
- Notable Opponents: Anatoly Karpov, Vladimir Kramnik, Nigel Short
Net Worth and Lifestyle
- Net Worth:
- Estimated between $1 million to $5 million as of 2023.
- Income sources include tournament winnings, book royalties, speaking engagements, and political activism.
- Properties:
- Details about his real estate holdings are not publicly disclosed.
- Automobiles:
- Information about his vehicle collection is not publicly available.
- Lifestyle Highlights:
- Active political activist, particularly known for his opposition to Vladimir Putin.
- Founded the United Civil Front, a social movement in Russia.
- Authored several books on chess and politics, including “My Great Predecessors” series and “Winter Is Coming.”
- Engages in public speaking, focusing on topics like artificial intelligence and human rights.
Recent Developments
As of December 2024, Kasparov remains a prominent political activist and commentator. He continues to advocate for democracy and human rights, frequently speaking at international forums and writing on geopolitical issues. His legacy in chess endures, inspiring new generations of players worldwide.
Legacy
Garry Kasparov’s impact on chess is profound, with his dynamic playing style and strategic innovations leaving a lasting imprint on the game. Beyond the chessboard, his commitment to political activism and human rights underscores his multifaceted contributions to society.
