Boris Spassky: Icon of Chess History Passes Away at 88

Boris Spassky, a former world chess champion, has passed away in Moscow at the age of 88, marking the end of an era in chess history defined by his notable 1972 match against Bobby Fischer.

Boris Spassky, the acclaimed chess player known for his fierce rivalry with Bobby Fischer, died on Thursday in Moscow, as announced by the International Chess Federation (FIDE). He was 88. His passing follows years of health struggles, including a major stroke in 2010 that left him wheelchair-bound. Arkady Dvorkovich, president of FIDE, hailed Spassky as not just an exemplary chess player of his time, but also a gentleman whose legacy will be cherished.

Often referred to as the "Match of the Century," the 1972 chess encounter between Spassky and Fischer became a focal point not only for the chess community but also for the global political tensions of the Cold War. The match drew immense media attention, framing the players as pawns in a much larger ideological battle. In a 2023 interview, Spassky’s son, Boris Jr., noted that his father viewed the match primarily through the lens of chess and struggled with the overwhelming pressures stemming from the political environment surrounding it.

The enduring significance of their rivalry led to a rematch two decades later that still captivated worldwide audiences, despite both players being past their prime. Spassky's accomplishments in chess and his calm demeanor at the chessboard represent a significant chapter in the history of the sport, and his contributions will not be forgotten.