Shakhriyar Mamedyarov, born in 1985 in Sumqayit, Azerbaijan, is one of the country’s most accomplished chess grandmasters and a leading figure in international chess. Known for his aggressive, imaginative, and tactical style, he became a Grandmaster in 2002 and quickly established himself on the world stage. Mamedyarov is a two-time World Junior Champion and won the World Rapid Chess Championship in 2013, demonstrating his versatility across time controls. His peak FIDE rating of 2820, achieved in September 2018, ranked him World No. 2 and placed him among the highest-rated players in chess history. | Throughout his career, Mamedyarov has achieved victories in elite tournaments, including the Tal Memorial, Biel Chess Festival, and Superbet Chess Classic, with notable wins over top players such as Magnus Carlsen. He has competed multiple times in the Candidates Tournament, narrowly missing the opportunity to challenge for the World Championship. A key member of Azerbaijan’s national team, he has contributed to multiple European Team Championship gold medals, cementing his legacy as both a top individual and team competitor.