Boris Spassky

World Champion 1969-1972
Born: 1937, Leningrad

Spassky was a player who had a deep love for the game. He played with creativity and often sought to contribute to the theoretical knowledge of chess for others' enjoyment. Spassky developed a tremendous attacking ability and numerous intriguing sacrifices can be found in his games. Spassky first challenged Petrosian for the World Championship in 1966. That first match Spassky lost, but 3 years later he was back. And this time Spassky won. Spassky held his World Championship title for 3 years until a new world leader emerged, Bobby Fischer.