GM Кaрпов

The Epic Rivalry of Anatoly Karpov and Garry Kasparov

The rivalry between Anatoly Karpov and Garry Kasparov is widely considered one of the greatest and most intense in chess history. It was not just a battle between two exceptional grandmasters, but also a symbolic confrontation between two different philosophies, generations, and even political ideologies during the Cold War era. Their matches defined an era in chess and left a lasting legacy on the game.

Background

Anatoly Karpov, born in 1951, became World Champion in 1975 after Bobby Fischer forfeited the title. Known for his positional mastery, deep strategic understanding, and calm demeanor, Karpov dominated the chess world in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He was considered nearly invincible, winning tournaments with ease and showing remarkable consistency.

Garry Kasparov, born in 1963, was a prodigy from Baku, Azerbaijan, who rose rapidly through the ranks thanks to his aggressive, tactical style and deep opening preparation. By the early 1980s, he was seen as a serious contender to Karpov's throne.

Their contrasting styles made the rivalry particularly fascinating: Karpov, the positional artist, versus Kasparov, the dynamic attacker.

The 1984–1985 World Championship Match

Their first World Championship match began in September 1984 in Moscow. The rules were unusual: the first player to win six games would be the champion, with draws not counting. Karpov quickly took the lead, going up 4–0, and later 5–0. Many believed the match would soon be over.

But then something remarkable happened. Kasparov began defending ferociously, refusing to lose the sixth game. Over the next several months, the match dragged on with an unprecedented number of draws. Kasparov eventually won three games, narrowing the score to 5–3 after 48 games.

After five months and 48 games, FIDE President Florencio Campomanes controversially ended the match in February 1985, citing the health of the players. No winner was declared. The chess world was shocked. Kasparov accused FIDE of protecting Karpov, while others debated the decision's fairness.

The 1985 Rematch

A rematch was scheduled with a more reasonable format: the first to 6.5 points (out of 24 games). This match, also held in Moscow, saw a more confident Kasparov. He took the lead early, and although Karpov fought back fiercely, Kasparov held on and won the match 13–11. At just 22 years old, Kasparov became the youngest World Champion in history.

This marked a turning point in chess history—the end of the Karpov era and the beginning of the Kasparov dynasty.

The 1986, 1987, and 1990 Matches

Karpov and Kasparov would go on to play three more World Championship matches—in 1986 (London and Leningrad), 1987 (Seville), and 1990 (New York and Lyon).

• 1986: Kasparov retained his title with a score of 12.5–11.5, after Karpov mounted a strong comeback in the middle of the match.

• 1987: One of the most dramatic matches ever. Going into the final game, Kasparov was trailing. He won the last game, securing a 12–12 draw and retaining his title by virtue of being the reigning champion.

• 1990: In their final World Championship match, Kasparov again narrowly defeated Karpov 12.5–11.5, proving his continued dominance.

Legacy

Their rivalry stretched over five World Championship matches, spanning over six years and 144 games. Kasparov scored 21 wins, Karpov had 19, and they drew over 100 games.

This rivalry was more than just about chess. It symbolized a shift in generations and ideologies. Karpov was often associated with the Soviet establishment, while Kasparov became known for his rebellious, independent spirit—even opposing the Soviet system later in his life.

Both players pushed each other to their limits, producing some of the highest-quality chess games ever played. Their intense preparation, deep psychological battles, and stylistic contrasts enriched the game's theory and inspired generations of players.

Conclusion

The Karpov-Kasparov rivalry was not just a contest for the chess crown—it was an epic saga filled with drama, politics, psychology, and brilliant chess. It left an indelible mark on the history of the game, and the games they played continue to be studied by aspiring chess players around the world.                                                                                                                                                        

1985 World Championship - Game 16
Kasparov (White) vs Karpov (Black)
Result: 1-0

Opening: Queen's Indian Defense

Moves: