THE CHAMPION WHO KEEPS WINNING

Winners of prestigious chess tournaments are never called former champions, because the number of world champions in intellectual sports is much smaller than in other sports. On the other hand, a chess player who has become world champion is already regarded as highly accomplished. Rustam Kasymjanov is one of them.

Considered a legend of Uzbek chess, Kasymjanov is not only a former world champion but also a trainer and seconds for many well-known and titled grandmasters. He is one of those rare champions who have also succeeded as a coach.

At the end of April, the Battle of Champions tournament was held at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. In this "battle," Azerbaijani champion Rauf Mammadov faced off against Rustam Kasymjanov, the FIDE World Champion from 2004 to 2005. The rapid and blitz tournament was memorable for several exciting moments.

During the event, Region Plus had the opportunity to interview the legendary Rustam Kasymjanov.

"Nice to see you again in Baku. How did the 'Battle of Champions' go?"

"First of all, I want to thank the Azerbaijan Chess Federation for giving me the chance to participate in such an interesting competition. Coming to Baku always leaves a good impression because your country is known for organising events at the highest level. As for the tournament, I have known Rauf Mammadov for a long time. He is a talented chess player who has represented the national team for many years. In general, the Azerbaijani chess school has always been famous for its talents."

"Which Azerbaijani chess players have you faced most often?"

"In team competitions, I have played against Teymur Rajabov and Shahriyar Mammadyarov. I must also mention the late Vugar Hashimov. These grandmasters are widely recognised and beloved in international chess circles. It is no coincidence that Azerbaijan’s national team with these players won the European Championship."

"Currently, Azerbaijani chess is going through a generational change. How long do you think it will take for new stars to emerge?"

"Chess players like Rajabov, Mammadyarov, Hashimov, and Mammadov do not appear every year. We need to wait and believe. It is important to support young players so they can play against masters and gain experience. Only then will new names emerge. There are also factors depending on the individual player. A grandmaster must dedicate half a day to chess until they reach the top. I understand this is very difficult. But if you want to become a good chess player, you will need to make sacrifices concerning entertainment and personal life."

"New names are attracting attention in Uzbek chess as well. As far as we know, you also work with Nodirbek Abdusattorov?"

"I sometimes assist him and follow his career closely. The Uzbekistan national chess team performed excellently at the World Chess Olympiad. The results achieved today bring joy to fans of this wonderful game. But we cannot stop here; we need to keep working and moving forward."

"The World Chess Olympiad will be held in Uzbekistan in 2026. Are you involved in organising this prestigious event?"

"Preparations for this competition are ongoing in Uzbekistan. I know that relevant activities are being held to ensure that the Olympiad takes place at the highest level. It will increase interest in chess significantly. In my opinion, more children will take up chess after 2026."

"What conditions do you consider important for the success of the new generation in chess?"

"Chess is loved and played worldwide. It was not as widespread before as it is today. This popularity has increased competition as well. Notice that there are more grandmasters now and titles can be won at a younger age. I would advise young people to think carefully before deciding to pursue chess professionally because with rising competition, achieving success has become more difficult."

"There is a phenomenon called Magnus Carlsen in chess. Do you agree with this?"

"Considering his achievements, it is impossible to disagree with that statement. Chess is changing; there are different preparation methods and levels of thinking now. Magnus’s success has ushered in a new era in chess."

"What impressions do you take away from Azerbaijan?"

"There are many similarities between Azerbaijani and Uzbek cultures. I felt as if I were in my hometown. At the same time, once again, we witnessed how much Baku loves and respects chess. Azerbaijanis cherish this sport and pass their passion on to the next generation. I wish you and your country all the best!"