Asia has long been a powerhouse in the chess world, producing some of the most iconic players whose strategic brilliance and fearless gameplay have captivated global audiences. From prodigies who achieved greatness at an early age to seasoned grandmasters who continue to dominate, these players represent the pinnacle of chess mastery. Top 10 of Asia takes a look at its list of the top ten legendary chess players of Asia, whose contributions have elevated the game and inspired countless enthusiasts across generations.
Arjun Erigasi
Hailing from the heritage city of Warangal, India, Arjun Erigaisi is an international chess Grandmaster renowned for his daring and panache playing style. Nicknamed ‘a complete madman’, Arjun lives up to this reputation with his bold and unpredictable moves on the chessboard. Starting his chess journey at the age of seven, Arjun has seen meteoric growth, reaching a peak rating of 2799 and breaking into the world’s top five. With his fearless approach and unwavering confidence, Arjun continues to inspire the next generation of chess enthusiasts globally.
Gukesh Dommaraju
Indian chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju, the third-youngest Grandmaster in history as of November 2024, has firmly established himself as a formidable force in modern chess. Despite beginning his chess journey at the relatively late age of seven, he achieved a FIDE rating within six months, a testament to his exceptional talent. Through unwavering dedication and an impressive championship streak, Gukesh has become the youngest player to qualify for the World Chess Championship, embodying the pinnacle of skill and perseverance.
Nodirbek Abdusattorov
Nodirbek Abdusattorov, a chess prodigy from Tashkent, Uzbekistan, has taken the chess world by storm with his extraordinary talent. Achieving grandmaster status at just 13, he became one of the youngest in history to do so. His journey began at age 9, when he defeated two grandmasters at the Georgy Agzamov Memorial, capturing global attention. At age 11, he shattered records as the youngest to enter FIDE’s top-100 juniors. By age 18, Abdusattorov had clinched the World Rapid and Olympic titles. As of November 2024, he ranks 6th globally in live ratings, showing no signs of slowing down in his pursuit of chess greatness.
Viswanathan Anand
Widely regarded as the greatest Indian chess player of all time, Viswanathan Anand is most known for his lightning-fast tactical brilliance during chess games, earning him the nickname “Lightning Kid.” Born on December 11, 1969, in Tamil Nadu, Anand became India’s first Grandmaster and later claimed the World Chess Championship title, holding it for six years. With an extraordinary career spanning decades, Anand’s legacy is one of trailblazing achievements and enduring influence in the chess world.
Vidit Santosh Gujrathi
Vidit Santosh Gujrathi, born on October 24, 1994, in Nashik, India, is a chess prodigy who became a Grandmaster at 18. Known for his exceptional skill, Vidit won the U-14 World Championship and climbed the ranks, joining the prestigious 2700-rating club in 2018. He claimed notable victories, including the 2018 Tata Steel Challengers and the 2019 Biel Chess Festival. In 2023, Vidit qualified for his first Candidates Tournament, demonstrating that his ambition and drive are as sharp as his game.
Le Quang Liem
Le Quang Liem, best known for clinching the 2013 World Blitz Chess Championship ahead of the world’s elite, is a formidable force in chess. Hailing from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Liem emerged as his nation’s premier chess prodigy. Achieving his Grandmaster title at just 15, he quickly established himself as a player with an exceptionally sharp tactical eye. His brilliance and hard work have resulted in numerous notable games, solidifying his reputation on the global chess stage.
Shakhriyar Mamedyarov
Dubbed a tactical genius, Azerbaijani chess grandmaster Shakhriyar Mamedyarov is renowned for his creative sacrifices and unorthodox opening strategies that often surprise his opponents. Born in Sumgait, Azerbaijan, in 1985, Mamedyarov started playing chess at the age of six. By age 12, Mamedyarov was already a FIDE Master, and by age 17, he had achieved the status of Grandmaster. Shakhriyar Mamedyarov’s journey in the world of chess is marked by his determination, passion and exceptional talent. His unique style and dedication to the game have made him one of the most exciting chess players to watch.
Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu
Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu, a chess prodigy from Tamil Nadu, India, has had one of the greatest youth careers in chess history. Achieving Grandmaster status at just 12 years old, he quickly made headlines by defeating World Champion Magnus Carlsen and reaching the FIDE World Cup final. With victories in global tournaments and a historic qualification for the 2024 Candidates Tournament, Praggnanandhaa’s journey showcases unparalleled determination and brilliance. Turning only 19 years old in 2024, Praggnanandhaa is a symbol of India’s rising dominance in the world of chess.
Ding Liren
Born in Wenzhou, China, a city rich in chess tradition, Ding Liren is the reigning FIDE World Chess Champion as of 2024 and the first from China to achieve this historic milestone. A prodigy, he rose to prominence in 2009 by swiftly defeating the elite grandmasters of his region. Ding became the youngest Chinese champion at 16, and later earning his grandmaster title in the same year. With his record-breaking unbeaten streak and a career of groundbreaking achievements, Ding has forever changed the landscape of chess in Asia and beyond.
Yu Yangyi
Yu Yangyi, one of China’s top chess grandmasters, began playing at seven where he quickly dominated the Chinese youth championships. At age 14, he became the country’s youngest grandmaster. His career highlights include leading China to its first Olympiad gold in 2014, winning the World Junior, Asian, and Chinese Championships the same year, and triumphing in elite tournaments like the Qatar Masters. Always evolving, Yu continues to push the boundaries of his game, making him a cornerstone of China’s chess legacy.
