As the world celebrated International Chess Day on Saturday 20 July, the spotlight shines brightly on Egypt’s formidable chess talent, a tapestry woven with the stories of remarkable grandmasters who have etched their names in the game. In the heart of Cairo, Bassem Amin stands tall as the country’s chess icon, a medical doctor by profession and a grandmaster by passion. Amin’s journey is one of unwavering dedication and unparalleled success, having secured the grandmaster title in 2006 and reigning as the highest-rated Egyptian and African player, with a FIDE (International Chess Federation) peak rating of 2700+. His trophy cabinet boasts an impressive seven African chess championship titles, cementing his status as a true regional powerhouse. Chess Championships, claiming titles in the U10, U12, and U14 divisions. His prodigious talent was further showcased when he finished fourth in the 2004 World Youth Chess Championship U-16 in Greece, paving the way for his historic victory at the 2005 African Junior Chess Championship, which qualified him for the World Junior Chess Championship. Amin’s dominance extends beyond the continental stage, as he etched his name in the Arab Chess Championship, securing his first…
Unveiling the Grandmasters: Egypt’s Rising Chess Pioneers
July 22, 2024
By Belal Nawar
Senior Journalist
