Nodirbek Abdusattorov shares his chess journey in World Chess interview

Uzbekistan’s top chess player and current world number 6, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, spoke to World Chess and answered 10 insightful questions about his career, playing style, and future ambitions.

— How would you describe yourself as a chess player?
— I see myself as an aggressive player. Fighting until the end and making the right decisions under pressure are my strongest sides.

— Your favorite opening?
— Definitely Ruy Lopez (also known as the Spanish Opening).

— Why that one in particular?
— It’s very versatile, has a rich history, and remains relevant in modern chess strategy. Many great champions have relied on it.

— Which part of your game would you like to improve?
— I want to enhance my endgame skills — to reach the level of someone like Magnus Carlsen in technique.

— Who inspires you in chess?
— Garry Kasparov. I admire him and try to learn from his style of play.

— Your toughest opponent so far?
— Magnus Carlsen, no doubt. He remains one of the greatest of all time and still performs at the highest level.

— Online or offline chess — which do you prefer?
— I prefer offline, because online you can’t read the opponent’s emotions or facial expressions. In live play, that’s part of the strategy.

— Your greatest achievement so far?
— Winning the 2021 World Rapid Championship — my first gold medal.

— Your biggest goal for the future?
— To become the number one chess player in the world. That’s been my dream since childhood.

— Is it difficult to reach that goal?
— Of course, it’s not easy. There’s a lot of hard work and challenges ahead, but I’m ready and won’t stop striving.

Abdusattorov at Freestyle Chess Grand Slam

Nodirbek is currently competing in the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam in Paris. He placed 5th in the qualifiers and lost 0.5–1.5 to Magnus Carlsen in the quarterfinal.

In the match for 5th place, he faced Maxime Vachier-Lagrave. After winning the first game and losing the second, the tie-break determined the winner. The first tie-break game ended in a draw, but Maxime won the second.

Now, Abdusattorov will fight for 7th place against Ian Nepomniachtchi. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!