Vladimir Kramnik is a Russian chess grandmaster born on June 25, 1975. He is best known for winning the World Chess Championship in 2000 and successfully defending his title in 2004. Kramnik is recognized for his strategic thinking and deep understanding of the game. He has contributed to chess theory and has been involved in promoting the game worldwide. Kramnik continues to be an influential figure in the chess community.

"So basically it's very simple: to start with, if you want to win the match, you shouldn't be afraid of him. There are still many, many things to do, but above all this is the most important: Don't be scared of him!"



"At some point he seemed to lose all confidence trying to break down the Berlin Wall. He was still fighting as only Kasparov can, but I could see it in his eyes that he knew he wasn't going to win one of these games."



"The development of beauty in chess never depends on you alone. No matter how much imagination and creativity you invest, you still do not create beauty. Your opponent must react at the same highest level."



"No - I'm quite calm inside during the game for most of the time - not 100%, but generally very calm."



"It made a big difference to my match stamina. I couldn't imagine I would have been so energetic during the match - it really gave me a welcomed extra boost!"



"For me art and chess are closely related, both are forms in which the self finds beauty and expression."



"Only he, who penetrates into the depth of the game, can express his personality in it."



"I feel that my relationship with Kasparov now is much the same as it had been before the match - good. As for his reaction, well it can't be nice to lose your title after so long, but he was very generous."



"I believe every chess player senses beauty, when he succeeds in creating situations, which contradict the expectations and the rules, and he succeeds in mastering this situation."



"I am convinced, the way one plays chess always reflects the player's personality. If something defines his character, then it will also define his way of playing."

