Ian Nepomniachtchi

Born on 14 July 1990 in Bryansk, Russia, into a family of teachers; his grandfather was a famous teacher and lyricist.

Learned to play chess at the age of four from his grandfather and quickly showed prodigious talent.

His uncle, Igor Nepomniashchy, was his first teacher; GM Valentin Evdokimenko then coached him from age five to thirteen.

Achieved his first success before he was seven, winning several Russian and European youth championships.

Graduated as a journalist from the Russian State Social University, where Tigran Petrosian also earned his PhD.

Raised in a family that valued education, he developed a wide range of interests and curiosity beyond chess.

One of the strongest players in the world today, ranked as high as No. 2; a two-time World Championship Challenger (2021 and 2023).

Became a Grandmaster in 2007 and won the Russian Championship for the first time in 2010.

Won the 2021 Candidates Tournament to earn the right to challenge Magnus Carlsen for the World Championship, losing 7.5–3.5.

Won the 2022 Candidates Tournament to earn a rematch, but the match against Ding Liren ended in a 7–7 tie, with Ding winning the rapid tiebreak.

Known for his sharp, aggressive style and his exceptional skill in faster time controls; a semi-professional Dota 2 player in his spare time.

Nepomniachtchi's 2021 World Championship match against Carlsen was marked by a dramatic collapse in the later games, with several uncharacteristic blunders.

His 2023 match against Ding Liren was one of the most topsy-turvy World Championship matches in history, with both players trading wins and blunders.

He is known for his sense of humor and his willingness to engage with fans on social media.

"The laws of sports are merciless. The energy of youth brings hope. You move forward, opening new doors. Over time, speed drops; growth slows."

Chess Metamorphosis — he wrote the foreword for this work.

Nail It Like Nepo!: Ian Nepomniachtchi's 30 Best Wins by Zenon Franco — a collection of his best games.