MAXIMALIST

As always, we evaluate the results of the previous year at the beginning of this year. For Azerbaijani chess, 2019 was remembered for a number of important achievements. Our national team guaranteed a brilliant victory at the youth world championship and became champions of the World Chess Olympiad. The women's team of Azerbaijan again won the bronze medal of the European Championship repeating the result of 27 years ago. The most important trophy of the past year was the World Cup, which for the first time in history was awarded to Azerbaijan thanks to the victory of Teymur Rajabov.

It is no surprise that, according to the results of the polls, Teymur Rajabov was recognised as the athlete of the year in Azerbaijan. He is our interviewee today.

"Firstly, let us congratulate you with your recent achievement."

"Thank you. Indeed, 2019 was very successful in my career. I am very glad that I was able to win the World Cup. I take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported me during my performance in this prestigious and responsible tournament."

"Can we say that Teymur Rajabov challenged the chess world with his victory at the World Cup?"

"I did not leave big chess and have always held high positions in the FIDE rating. I periodically played for the national team of Azerbaijan, and three times I became a European champion as part of the team. In 2017-2018 season, I missed half a point to qualify for the candidates tournament."

"In the quarterfinals of the World Cup, you defeated your teammate Shahriyar Mammadyarov. How difficult was the victory?"

"Shahriyar is a strong and experienced chess player. For many years, we defended the honour of the Azerbaijani team with him. I remember that the last party with him was difficult and had enough tense moments. But in the end, I was lucky. After the game, Shahriyar congratulated me and wished me success in the next stage."

"After winning the World Cup, President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva sent you congratulatory messages. What did you feel when you received the messages from such high ranked officials?"

"Well, it is a great honour for me. They mean that Azerbaijan's top officials are following the development of chess in the country and are interested in my career. The attention shown by the state increases our interest in chess and encourages the younger generation to win big."

"After winning the World Cup, you did not take part in the European Championship..."

"Unfortunately, I could not play in the national team at the European Championships. But you know that we have a very strong team. The Azerbaijani men's team three times became the champion of the continent. Over the years, we have also won silver and bronze awards. The World Cup lasted about a month, and after the struggle with strong opponents, I was simply tired. In addition, right after the European Championships, I had to participate in the FIDE Grand Prix in Hamburg. In such a tired state, I would not be able to fight my best."

"What is your next goal after winning the World Cup?"

"I have always been a maximalist. Since childhood. In all tournaments, I fought for the highest place. Winning the World Cup has a special place in my career. This is a big marathon for the strongest athletes, where a single loss is enough to leave the tournament. Therefore, to win the World Cup is very difficult. This victory once again showed the world the power of Azerbaijani chess. One cannot be satisfied with existing achievements in sports. In subsequent tournaments, I will also fight for the maximum result."

"In 2020, the chess world will be focused on the tournament of candidates. Eight strongest chess players will challenge the right to fight for the chess crown. You will represent Azerbaijan. How is the preparation for the tournament going?"

"This is one of the main competitions of the year. The winner will get a chance to meet the world champion. Along with the strongest chess players, we will also have to compete with their coaching staff. To prepare for the tournament at the proper level, we need serious financial support to be able to compete with the world's chess elite. In any case, I will mobilise my full potential to represent Azerbaijan adequately.

"Finally, what would you like to wish to the readers of our magazine..."

"I congratulate you and your readers on the Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis and the New Year. I am sure that Azerbaijan continues the development and improve the stability in 2020 as well. I thank your staff for your constant attention to me and chess."

"Thank you!"