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Five-time chess world champion Viswanathan Anand penned an emotional tribute to Boris Spassky, the tenth world chess champion, who passed away on February 28 at the age of 88. Spassky, a towering figure in the chess world, left an indelible mark on the game, and Anand’s words reflected the deep respect and admiration he held for the late legend.
A Journey Through Spassky’s Legacy
Anand took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts, recalling Spassky’s remarkable journey to becoming world champion. He mentioned The Hundred Best Games of Boris Spassky, a book by Bernard Cafferty that Anand won as a prize when he was just nine years old.
“Yesterday, I woke up to the sad news about the death of Boris Spassky. I remembered The Hundred Best Games of Boris Spassky, written by Bernard Cafferty (which I won as a prize when I was nine years old), with a biographical introduction in the foreword, and decided to refresh my memory of Spassky’s journey to becoming world champion,” Anand wrote.
Relatable Struggles and Triumphs
Anand recounted a poignant story about Spassky’s rivalry with Mikhail Tal during the 1958 USSR Championship in Riga. Spassky, despite being in a winning position, lost the final round and was overcome with emotion.
“He [Spassky] managed to lose a winning position in the last round (something most of us, if not all, have done at some point—so very relatable), then went and cried on the street. He also blamed himself for not shaving and not wearing a suit for the adjournment. The emotions are so recognisable (I have done the same—didn’t I take it seriously? Did I take it too seriously?),” Anand shared.
The Iconic ‘Match of the Century’
Anand also highlighted Spassky’s historic 1972 World Chess Championship match against American Bobby Fischer in Reykjavik, often referred to as the ‘Match of the Century.’ Fischer’s victory ended the Soviet Union’s dominance in chess, and Spassky faced significant backlash at home for his loss.
“He then endured punishment at home for his loss to Fischer before being allowed to emigrate to France,” Anand noted.
Anand’s Personal Encounters with Spassky
Anand reflected on his own interactions with Spassky, whom he met after becoming the World Junior Champion. He described Spassky as a witty and cheerful individual who had shed the weight of expectations later in life.
“He was still a very strong player and still very witty (though I didn’t always catch his references and would have to ask someone). I remember telling Boris Gelfand about a conversation Spassky had with Morozevich, and Boris laughed himself sick. Too much of an insider joke to narrate, but clearly, Spassky was someone we both found very funny.”
Anand added, “By now, though, he seemed genuinely lighter, without the burden of expectations on his shoulders. I remember him as usually being in a cheerful mood and someone who enjoyed life, which is why I enjoyed reading the book again and remembering how different it was and how much he overcame to become a World Champion.”
A Final Farewell to a Chess Icon
Anand concluded his tribute by expressing his gratitude for having known Spassky, calling it a privilege.
“I am privileged to have known Boris Vasilievich Spassky. RIP.”
With Spassky’s passing, the chess world has lost one of its greatest legends. His contributions to the game and his enduring legacy will continue to inspire future generations of chess players.
