The Turkish Immortal: A Rising Star’s Journey in Chess
Expand Your Chess Horizons with the New Opening Report
Explore the latest features in ChessBase ’26, including detailed analyses of opening plans and strategies. Discover the remarkable achievements of Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus, the 14-year-old Turkish prodigy, as he makes waves in the chess world. Join us as we delve into his standout performances and the unforgettable game dubbed “The Turkish Immortal.”
The Turkish Immortal: Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus Shines in the Chess World
As the chess community welcomes a new year, one name is making waves: Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus, a 14-year-old prodigy from Bursa, Turkey. With his remarkable ascent to the second spot in the juniors’ ranking, Erdogmus has captured the attention of chess enthusiasts worldwide, especially as he stands out as the youngest player among the top 20.
In 2025, Erdogmus showcased his extraordinary talent with a series of impressive performances. He scored an impressive 8/11 at the European Individual Championship and achieved a respectable 4/7 at the TePe Sigeman Tournament. However, it was his thrilling victory over renowned grandmaster Peter Svidler in a classical match in Marseille that truly marked his emergence on the global stage.
The pinnacle of Erdogmus’ year came at the prestigious FIDE Grand Swiss in Samarkand. Entering the tournament as the 52nd seed, he finished 28th with a commendable score of 6/11 and a tournament performance rating (TPR) of 2721. His victories over notable players, including Aleksandra Goryachkina, Aditya Mittal, and super-GM Levon Aronian, solidified his reputation as a formidable competitor.
Among his standout moments, Erdogmus’ match against Aditya Mittal in round four has been dubbed “The Turkish Immortal” by chess commentator GM Daniel King. In a game that showcased Erdogmus’ boldness and tactical prowess, he executed a stunning combination with the black pieces that left spectators in awe. King, impressed by the young talent’s audacity, dedicated a video analysis to the game on his popular YouTube channel, Power Play Chess.
The match began with a wild tactical skirmish, as Erdogmus made the daring decision to position two minor pieces deep within the opponent’s territory. The final combination was nothing short of spectacular, embodying the essence of chess as a game of strategy, sacrifice, and unexpected brilliance.
As the chess world continues to evolve, tools like ChessBase ’26 are enhancing the way players approach openings and strategies. The new Opening Report feature provides insights into significant piece moves and pawn advances, catering especially to amateurs who appreciate clear plans, much like the beloved London System. With the integration of Monte Carlo analysis, players can visualize common figure paths, enriching their understanding of the game.
As we look ahead, the chess community eagerly anticipates what the future holds for Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus. With his talent and determination, he is poised to become a significant figure in the world of chess, inspiring a new generation of players. The Turkish Immortal has arrived, and the chessboard is his stage.