Chess is a game that has stood the test of time, producing countless legends who have left an indelible mark on its history. As the current World Chess Championship match between Ding Liren and Gukesh captures global attention, it’s the perfect moment to revisit some of the greatest chess players ever.

This list highlights five exceptional players who not only dominated their eras but also revolutionized the game. Let’s begin our countdown from number five!

José Raúl Capablanca, born in 1888 in Cuba, is often referred to as the “Chess Machine.” His natural talent and intuitive grasp of the game made him one of the most formidable players of his time.

Capablanca became the World Chess Champion in 1921, defeating Emanuel Lasker, who had held the title for 27 years. His playing style was elegant and simple, often winning games with precision and minimal errors.

He was particularly known for his mastery of endgames, where his calm and calculated approach often led to victory. Although he lost the title to Alexander Alekhine in 1927, Capablanca’s influence on chess fundamentals remains significant, and his games are still studied by aspiring players today.

Anatoly Karpov, born in 1951 in the Soviet Union, was a dominant force in chess during the 1970s and 1980s. He became the World Chess Champion in 1975 when Bobby Fischer refused to defend his title.

Karpov is renowned for his positional style of play, focusing on small advantages and patiently building them into decisive victories. His rivalry with Garry Kasparov, which began in 1985, is one of the most famous in chess history.

Despite losing the title to Kasparov, Karpov remained a top contender for many years, winning numerous tournaments and demonstrating his strategic brilliance. His calm demeanor and ability to exploit even the slightest mistakes made him a formidable opponent.

Bobby Fischer, born in 1943 in the United States, is one of the most iconic and controversial figures in chess history. He burst onto the scene as a chess prodigy, becoming the youngest U.S. Chess Champion at 14 and a grandmaster at 15.

Fischer’s greatest achievement came in 1972 when he defeated Boris Spassky in the “Match of the Century,” becoming the first American World Chess Champion. This match, set against the backdrop of the Cold War, was more than just a chess game—it was a cultural phenomenon.

Fischer’s playing style was marked by precise calculation, deep opening preparation, and an unparalleled will to win. Although he retired from competitive chess shortly after his victory, Fischer’s influence on the game remains profound.

Magnus Carlsen, born in 1990 in Norway, is often called the “Mozart of Chess.” A child prodigy, Carlsen became a grandmaster at the age of 13 and quickly rose to the top of the chess world.

In 2013, Carlsen defeated Viswanathan Anand to become the World Chess Champion, a title he has successfully defended multiple times. His playing style is a blend of strategic depth and exceptional endgame skills, often turning seemingly equal positions into victories.

Carlsen’s dominance extends beyond classical chess—he is also a top player in rapid and blitz formats. His achievements and versatility have earned him recognition as one of the greatest players of all time, and he continues to inspire chess enthusiasts worldwide.

At the top of our list is Garry Kasparov, widely regarded as the greatest chess player of all time. Born in 1963 in the Soviet Union, Kasparov became the youngest World Chess Champion in 1985 at the age of 22, defeating the legendary Anatoly Karpov.

Kasparov held the World Chess Championship title for an incredible 15 years, from 1985 to 2000, dominating the chess world like no other. His aggressive playing style, deep preparation, and ability to find brilliant moves in critical moments set him apart from his competitors.

Even after retiring from professional chess in 2005, Kasparov remains a prominent figure, mentoring young players and promoting the game globally. His contributions to chess theory and his competitive spirit have left a lasting legacy that continues to influence the game today.

Chess is a game of strategy, creativity, and resilience, and each generation brings new talents and innovations. The legends on this list not only mastered the game but also paved the way for future champions.

As we follow the ongoing World Chess Championship between Ding Liren and Gukesh, it’s exciting to think about how these players might one day be considered among the all-time greats. Whether you’re a casual player or a dedicated fan, these legends remind us why chess continues to captivate millions of people around the world.

Who knows? The next chess legend might be reading this right now!