World Chess Championship 1910

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January 7 – February 10 | ⭐Emanuel Lasker (Germany)


Reigning Champion: Emanuel Lasker

World Chess Championship 1910
Emanuel Lasker AI generated

Emanuel Lasker, the 1st World Chess Champion since 1894, first claimed the title by defeating Steinitz. Before this match, he successfully defended his title three times: against Steinitz (1896–1897), Marshall (1907), and Tarrasch (1908). Known for his remarkable adaptability and psychological approach, Lasker’s ability to handle high-pressure situations cemented his reputation as one of the greatest champions in chess history. Entering the World Chess Championship 1910, Lasker was already a two-time defender of the title, having prevailed in matches against Steinitz (1896–1897) and Marshall (1907).


Challenger: Carl Schlechter

Carl Schlechter, (Austria-Hungary), one of the most respected players of his era, was renowned for his sportsmanship, modesty, and deep positional understanding. Schlechter’s achievements included numerous tournament victories and his reputation as a draw specialist, often preferring secure positions over high-risk play. His selection as challenger in 1910 stemmed from his consistent performance at the highest levels of competitive chess.


Match Overview

The 1910 World Chess Championship, the first of two held that year, was contested between Emanuel Lasker and Carl Schlechter from January 7 to February 10, spanning Vienna and Berlin. The match format included ten games, with the challenger needing to win outright to claim the title. The result was a 1–1 tie, with eight draws, allowing Lasker to retain his championship.

A dramatic conclusion unfolded in the final game. Schlechter, leading by one point, needed only a draw to secure victory. However, his decision to play aggressively, rather than secure a draw, resulted in a loss, enabling Lasker to equalize the score. This controversial ending has fueled historical debate, with some suggesting that Schlechter required a two-point margin to win the title, though this remains unverified.

Earlier Encounters

Lasker and Schlechter had crossed paths in various tournaments prior to the championship, with notable games at St. Petersburg (1909) and Cambridge Springs (1904). These matches showcased their contrasting styles, with Schlechter’s solid positional play often clashing against Lasker’s adaptable and psychological approach.

Quotes and Insights

«Schlechter played with a purity that only few have ever matched.» — Alexander Alekhine

«The decision to play for a win in the final game will forever define Schlechter’s legacy.» — Chess Historian Edward Winter


Historical and Cultural Context

The 1910 championship was significant for its dramatic conclusion and the questions it raised about match conditions. Schlechter’s decision to prioritize a decisive result over a secure draw reflected his integrity and commitment to the spirit of chess. Meanwhile, Lasker’s ability to withstand pressure reaffirmed his position as one of the game’s all-time greats. The match’s legacy endures as one of the most debated and dramatic World Chess Championships.


Emanuel Lasker – Carl Schlechter: 5 – 5 (+1-1=8)


World Chess Championship 1910 Games

Game 1


Game 2


Game 3


Game 4


Game 5


Game 6


Game 7


Game 8


Game 9


Game 10


The first World Chess Championship 1910
Emanuel Lasker AI generated

The first World Chess Championship 1910

Emanuel Lasker

World Chess Championship 1910 | Lasker – Schlechter | Games

Sources for Quotes

Alekhine, Alexander. «On Schlechter’s Purity of Play.» In Chess Classics, 1925.

Winter, Edward. «Historical Perspectives on the 1910 World Championship.» In Chess Notes, 2002.

Sources

All sources, image credits, and content attributions are available on the main World Chess Champions page.