GM Alexander Morozevich

GM Alexander Morozevich is one of only a few chess players who can claim to have been the world’s number-two player. In July 2008, his rating of 2788 put him second behind only GM Viswanathan Anand and also made Morozevich Russia’s number-one player. Twice, in 1998 and 2007, he won the Russian Chess Championship. Morozevich was also one of just four players to participate in both world championship tournaments of 2005 and 2007 (along with Anand, GM Peter Svidler, and GM Peter Leko). He finished fourth and sixth, respectively. 

Morozevich is perhaps best known for a unique playing style: fewer draws in an era when draws continue to be more common; a strong record in rapid and blindfold games; and an opening repertoire that includes many Chigorin and Albin responses to the Queen’s Gambit. He is even a talented go player. It is no wonder Morozevich was a GM before turning 18 and once was the second-rated player in the world.