Remembering Bobby Fischer: An Interview with Boris Spassky

Legendary Chess Champion Boris Spassky Reflects on Friendship with Bobby Fischer

In a rare and candid moment, former world chess champion Boris Spassky opened up about his relationship with the late Bobby Fischer, his successor as world chess champion. Speaking at an event in Sochi, Russia, Spassky revealed that he still speaks to Fischer in his dreams and considers him a friend, not a rival.

The two chess legends famously faced off in the historic 1972 world title match in Reykjavik, Iceland, which marked the end of Soviet dominance in chess. The match, dubbed the “Match of the Century,” captured the attention of the world during the height of the Cold War.

Despite their intense rivalry on the chessboard, Spassky reminisced about Fischer discussing opening moves in his dreams and the dramatic contest that unfolded in Reykjavik. Fischer’s unconventional behavior and demands during the match added to the intrigue, with Spassky ultimately losing to the American prodigy.

Twenty years later, Fischer invited Spassky to an unofficial world title rematch in Yugoslavia, defying UN sanctions and facing repercussions from the US government. Fischer’s tumultuous life post-chess included exile and eventual citizenship in Iceland, where he passed away in 2008.

While the legends of Spassky and Fischer live on in chess lore, the current generation of players may not fully appreciate the significance of their rivalry. World champion Magnus Carlsen, when asked about Spassky’s presence at a recent event, admitted he did not recognize the chess icon.

As Spassky reflects on his friendship with Fischer and the impact of their historic matches, the legacy of these two chess titans continues to captivate and inspire players and fans around the world.