In a very interesting last couple of days in Libya, the new champion, Rustam Kasimdzhanov gave an interview and a press conference in which he described his experiences in the 2004 FIDE World Chess Championship. His impressions of the tournament were very favorable and like many other players, commented on the friendliness of the Libyans. "The people have been very friendly every single place I have been to, and this has undoubtedly contributed to my overall frame of mind," he stated.

The Germany-based Uzbekistani player downplayed the notion that he had done anything special for this tournament and only prepared for Alejandro Ramirez of Costa Rica. He may have remembered that a 14-year old Ramirez caused a stir at the 2002 Bled Olympiad when he was a few moves away from beating Alexander Morozevich! The game was drawn. Certainly in this format, no opponent could be taken lightly.

Perhaps being an relative "unknown" played to his favor since Kasimdzhanov is not considered a marquee player in the circuit. His most notable success before winning the FIDE World Championship was making the finals in the 2002 World Cup tournament in Hyderabad, India. He lost that match against Viswanathan Anand and has remained in obscurity despite having eclipsed 2700-barrier at one point.

The personable 24-year father of one, mentioned that he does not intend to duck competition and accepts the responsibility as a champion to play as much as possible. "I will play a small tournament in India very soon. I will not shun playing in tournaments. My new title will permit me to play more. I think that the world champion has a responsibility to play as many tournaments as he can during his tenure. This is our legacy."

Rustam Kasimdzhanov, being from an overwhelmingly Islamic Central Asian country, said that Libya reminded him a lot of Tashkent where he was born. During the press conference he reflected, "In spite this being Africa, it is a very typical oriental city." Part of the reasons for his strength came from the outpouring of support worldwide, but also from "normal people" like waiters in the restaurant. "Without this support, I myself, would not dare to believe I can do this."

Posted by The Chess Drum: 15 July 2004