GM Alexander Ivanov

• USCF Rating: 2604
• Openings : -50
• Tactical Ability : +0
• Positional Play : +75
• Endgame Technique : +75
• Speed Chess : 7
• Consistency : 8
• Tenacity : 7
• Overall Aggressiveness : 6
• Against Strong Players : 5
• Against Weak Players : 9

Strengths: Alex's positional understanding is incredible, and he can calculate long lines very well.

Weaknesses: His openings are suited for weaker, unprepared opponents. When he plays stronger opponents he has a separate opening repertoire, and it's not up to the caliber of other GMs at his level. He also gets into severe time pressure in a high percentage of his games.

Amusing Story:

Alex is legendary for his ability to get into time trouble. I remember this one game he played against IM Bill Paschall in Massachusetts. Ivanov only had seconds left to make 10 moves. Seeing that Ivanov was so low on time, Bill made this very unclear knight sacrifice that was incredibly complicated. Alex was practically convulsing at the board (he sways back and forth in time pressure), and I think he was even hyperventilating. But somehow, he managed to hold the position together and make time control up a piece for only a few pawns. He went on to win the game and the tournament.




Reason for this song choice:
Alex has ridiculous records against the local masters/senior masters. Many of the 2400 level players in New England have only beaten Alex once in dozens of games.