1. How did you discover your love for chess and who influenced you the most?
My passion for chess ignited at the tender age of 5, back in 1995, thanks to my father's insightful suggestion. He introduced me to the game as a means of keeping me occupied, and it captivated me from the start. Initially, I honed my skills against an electronic chessboard and delved into the game's intricacies through reading manuals. In September 1996, I took a significant step by joining a chess club in Créteil, where I encountered my first mentor, Eric Birmingham.
Under his guidance, I embarked on my journey in competitive chess, participating in my initial tournaments. While I've had the privilege of learning from several coaches throughout my career, it's challenging to pinpoint one as the most influential. However, Nikola Spiridonov holds a special place in my heart, as he played a pivotal role during my formative years, particularly between the ages of 11 and 16. He not only imparted strategic insights but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the Grünfeld Defense and endgame intricacies.
2. What’s your most unforgettable game and its impact on your play style?
Reflecting on my most unforgettable games, I find it difficult to choose among three standout encounters, each leaving an indelible mark on my play style. The first memorable game occurred in 2007 against Robert Fontaine, where I boldly sacrificed numerous pieces. Another pivotal moment transpired in 2009 when I faced Morozevich in a game characterized by unparalleled complexity and originality. Finally, my clash with the current world champion, Ding Liren, in 2013, stands as a testament to the challenges and triumphs inherent in high-stakes chess battles.
3. How do you mentally prepare for tournaments and cope with high-pressure games?
Mental preparation forms a cornerstone of my tournament readiness, a process facilitated by consistent collaboration with a dedicated mental trainer over the past five years. This holistic approach encompasses daily routines and in-depth psychological exercises tailored to enhance my resilience and focus amidst high-pressure situations. Coping with the intensity of competitive chess demands a multifaceted strategy, blending innate resilience with learned techniques to navigate the psychological nuances of the game effectively.
4. What guidance would you offer young chess enthusiasts?
To aspiring chess enthusiasts, I impart the importance of cultivating enthusiasm as a driving force behind their journey. While the landscape of chess training has evolved significantly, with young prodigies achieving remarkable proficiency at unprecedented ages, the essence of passion remains timeless. Embrace the wealth of resources at your disposal, harnessing modern tools and methodologies to fuel your growth and mastery of the game.
5. Can you discuss the evolution of your aggressive strategy in chess?
The evolution of my aggressive strategy in chess mirrors a broader trend observed among players transitioning from youth to maturity. While youthful exuberance often manifests in bold and daring moves, tempered experience brings a nuanced understanding of risk and reward. As players mature, maintaining a delicate balance between optimism and pragmatism becomes paramount, navigating the fine line between calculated aggression and reckless abandon.
6. What major goals do you aim to achieve in your chess career?
My chess career is defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence, with aspirations of reaching for the highest echelons of the game. Despite the formidable competition posed by both contemporaries and emerging talents, I remain resolute in my commitment to evolving as a player and rising to new challenges. Securing a coveted spot in the 2026 Candidates' Tournament stands as a primary objective, driving me to refine my skills and adapt to the dynamic landscape of elite chess competition.
Bio:
Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (also known as “MVL”) is a French super grandmaster who, since 2016, has spent plenty of time rated among the top five chess players in the world. His rating peaked at 2819 in August 2016, making him the seventh-highest-rated player in history.
Vachier-Lagrave is a three-time French Chess Champion, a five-time winner of the Biel Grandmaster Tournament, and a two-time European Blitz Champion. In 2021 he added World Blitz Champion to his resume.
As one of the world’s top chess players, Vachier-Lagrave belongs on the small list of competitors who have a realistic shot at the world title.
Interviewed by: Shantanu Singh
Edited by: Mishika Goel
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