Photo Marcel Antonisse Anefo via Wikimedia Commons CC0
Anatoly Karpov, born on May 23, 1951, in Zlatoust, Soviet Union, entered the World Chess Championship 1984, having held the title since 1975 after Bobby Fischer’s forfeiture. Known for his precise positional play, deep strategic understanding, and relentless endgame technique, Karpov had successfully defended his title against Viktor Korchnoi in 1978 and 1981. By 1984, he was widely regarded as one of the greatest champions in chess history.
«The ideal chess player is one who is both precise and resourceful.» — Anatoly Karpov
Challenger: Garry Kasparov
Garry Kasparov, born on April 13, 1963, in Baku, Soviet Union, earned the right to challenge for the title by winning the 1983 Candidates Tournament, where he defeated Alexander Beliavsky, Viktor Korchnoi, and Vasily Smyslov. Known for his aggressive, dynamic play, deep preparation, and psychological resilience, the 21-year-old Kasparov was seen as the greatest challenge to Karpov’s dominance.
«Chess is mental torture, but it is also an art and a science.» — Garry Kasparov
Match Overview
The 1984 World Chess Championship, held in Moscow, was the first title match between Anatoly Karpov and Garry Kasparov, marking the beginning of one of chess history’s greatest rivalries. The match followed a first-to-six-wins format, with draws not counting.
Karpov dominated the early stages, securing a 5–0 lead after 27 games and needing just one more win to retain his title. However, Kasparov mounted a historic comeback, avoiding defeat in the next 21 games before scoring his first win in Game 32. He added another victory in Game 47, closing the gap to 5–3 after 48 games.
Then, in a highly controversial decision, FIDE President Florencio Campomanes terminated the match on February 15, 1985, citing player health concerns after five months and 48 games. The decision outraged both players, but the title remained with Karpov.
«This match should have continued. A champion must be decided over the board.» — Garry Kasparov
Earlier Encounters
Karpov and Kasparov had met only a few times in major tournaments before this match. Karpov’s strategic discipline contrasted with Kasparov’s dynamic, high-energy approach, setting the stage for their historic rivalry.
Key Moments and Highlights
Game 9: Karpov demonstrated his superior endgame technique, grinding out a long positional win.
Game 27: Karpov reached 5–0, seemingly cruising to victory.
Game 32: Kasparov won his first game, a crucial psychological breakthrough.
Game 47: Kasparov won again, shifting the momentum.
Match Stoppage: After 48 games, Campomanes canceled the match—one of the most controversial moments in chess history.
Historical and Cultural Context
This championship was deeply intertwined with the Cold War. Karpov was a symbol of Soviet establishment – groomed as a state-backed chess champion—while Kasparov, though also Soviet, was seen as a rebellious, independent thinker. The match became a symbolic battle between tradition and the future.
Many speculated that political forces influenced the decision to halt the match, as Kasparov’s comeback threatened Karpov’s reign.