Abdelrahman
Boris Spassky, 10th World Chess Champion, Passes Away at 88
Former world chess champion Boris Spassky, known for his remarkable victory over GM Tigran Petrosian in 1969 and intense match against Bobby Fischer in 1972, has passed away at the age of 88, confirmed by the Chess Federation of Russia. Spassky, the last living world chess champion before his death, leaves the title to GM Anatoly Karpov.
Spassky was an eloquent and humorous figure, recognized for his independent thinking and anti-Communist stance. Notably, in the late 1960s, he stood out as the leading player among his Soviet peers before succumbing to Fischer’s dominating presence.
Reflecting on losing his title, Spassky once remarked, “You can’t imagine how relieved I was when Fischer took the title from me. Honestly, I don’t recall that day as unhappy; rather, I felt a heavy burden lifted off my shoulders, allowing me to breathe freely.”
Even shortly after their legendary match, Spassky conveyed similar sentiments, stating in an interview in Reykjavik, "I am not disappointed to lose this match. In fact, I believe life will improve for me moving forward."
Born on January 30, 1937, in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg), Spassky was evacuated in 1941 during the siege of the city. It’s said that during this tumultuous journey, he learned the fundamentals of chess. His family faced severe hardships, with Spassky’s mother even selling her possessions to provide for her husband during a desperate time.
Upon returning to Leningrad, his brother introduced him to a chess pavilion on Krestovsky Island, igniting a passion that would shape his future. Later, Spassky would share, “Looking back, I felt a kind of predestined path in my life through chess, which became my means of self-expression.”
At only 10 years old, he showcased his talent by winning a game against Soviet Champion GM Mikhail Botvinnik. By 1947, Spassky was honing his skills under coach Vladimir Grigorievich Zak, who not only guided him strategically but also supported him for his family’s basic needs during post-war difficulties.
His noteworthy achievements began to stack up: a second-place finish at the Leningrad Championship at 15, followed by an international master title a year later after a solid performance in Bucharest.
Spassky became a grandmaster at 18 and continued building a formidable career, culminating in significant results in Soviet Championships and international tournaments. His career showcased action-packed moments, including his transformative matches and his unique playing style that blended aggressive and strategic elements.
In 1972, Spassky faced Fischer in what would be labeled the "Match of the Century" in Reykjavik, Iceland. Despite losing the match 12.5 to 8.5, Spassky’s legacy was already firmly established through earlier achievements and overcoming numerous challenges.
Throughout the years, Spassky engaged in various tournaments worldwide, creating memories and friendships along the way, including with Fischer, their bond exceptionally unique given their contrasting personalities during the intense Cold War era.
In later life, Spassky lived in France and returned to Russia, remaining active within the chess community through teaching and competitive play while maintaining an indelible mark on the minds of many chess enthusiasts and players.
Spassky’s contributions to the chess world are recognized as monumental. He embraced a universal playing style and inspired generations of chess players. As Andrei Filatov, president of the Chess Federation of Russia, stated, "A great personality has departed; countless chess players learned from him. His loss will resonate deeply within the chess community."
Boris Spassky’s illustrious career and life undoubtedly captured hearts beyond the chessboard, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire.
