10 Greatest Chess Players of All Time

By Rajni Pandey | June 20, 2024

Garry Kasparov

Garry Kasparov is often regarded as the greatest chess player of all time. He held the world championship title from 1985 to 2000 and achieved the highest Elo rating ever recorded at the time.

Image Credit: PTI

Magnus Carlsen

Magnus Carlsen, the current world champion, is known for his deep understanding of the game and versatility. He became the youngest player to reach a rating of 2800 and continues to dominate the chess world.

Image Credit: AP Photo

Bobby Fischer

Bobby Fischer was an American chess prodigy who became world champion in 1972. His contributions to chess theory and his extraordinary talent make him a legendary figure in the chess community.

Image Credit: AP Photo

Anatoly Karpov

Anatoly Karpov was world champion from 1975 to 1985 and is known for his positional style and strategic prowess. He played numerous high-profile matches against Kasparov, forming one of the greatest rivalries in chess history. 

Image Credit: Reuters

Vladimir Kramnik

Vladimir Kramnik defeated Garry Kasparov in 2000 to become world champion. He is known for his solid and defensive style, as well as his contributions to chess opening theory.

Image Credit: Wikipedia

Viswanathan Anand

Viswanathan Anand, known as the "Tiger of Madras," was world champion from 2007 to 2013. He is renowned for his rapid playing style and versatility across different formats of the game.

Image Credit: PTI

Mikhail Tal

Mikhail Tal, known as the "Magician from Riga," was world champion in 1960. He was famous for his aggressive and imaginative attacking style, often sacrificing material for dynamic play.

Image Credit: Wikipedia

José Capablanca

José Capablanca, world champion from 1921 to 1927, was known for his exceptional endgame skills and clear, logical play. His natural talent and smooth style earned him a reputation as one of the greatest players ever.

Image Credit: Wikipedia

Alexander Alekhine

Alexander Alekhine was world champion from 1927 to 1935 and again from 1937 to 1946. He was known for his fierce attacking play and deep combinations, making significant contributions to opening theory.

Image Credit: Wikipedia

Paul Morphy

Paul Morphy, considered one of the first unofficial world champions, dominated the chess scene in the mid-19th century. His intuitive and aggressive style set the stage for modern chess play.

Image Credit: Wikipedia