- Birth Date: October 9, 1993
- Place of Birth: Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines
- Title: Grandmaster (2008)
- Dates Active: So became a Grandmaster in 2008 and has been a prominent figure in international chess, particularly since the early 2010s.
Wesley So’s Career Highlights
- So has been a consistent figure in the top 10 of the FIDE world rankings, showcasing his skills across a range of international competitions.
- He won the 2016 Sinquefield Cup, outperforming many of the world’s top players in a highly competitive field.
- So triumphed in the 2017 Tata Steel Masters, one of the most prestigious tournaments on the chess calendar.
- He clinched the 2020 U.S. Chess Championship and the 2021 FIDE World Fischer Random Chess Championship, demonstrating his versatility and strategic depth in various chess formats.
Wesley So’s Favorite Piece
- While So is a versatile player capable of utilizing all pieces to their maximum potential, his games often highlight the power of bishops in controlling long diagonals and influencing both flanks of the board.
Wesley So’s Most Played Opening
- As White: So frequently employs the English Opening, leading to versatile middlegame positions where his deep understanding and strategic planning come to the forefront.
- As Black: He is known for his solid and well-prepared responses in the Nimzo-Indian Defense and the Ruy Lopez, showcasing a preference for openings that lead to rich strategic battles.
Wesley So’s Win/Loss Ratio
- So’s win/loss ratio underscores his strength and consistency at the highest levels of chess, maintaining an impressive record across classical, rapid, and blitz formats.
Wesley So’s Famous Games
- Wesley So vs. Anish Giri, Tata Steel Masters 2017: So’s victory in this game was a critical point in his tournament win, demonstrating his innovative play and deep opening preparation.
- Wesley So vs. Magnus Carlsen, Skilling Open Final 2020: So defeated the World Champion in a rapid tiebreak, showcasing his rapid chess prowess and strategic acumen.
Legacy and Influence: Wesley So’s journey from a chess prodigy in the Philippines to becoming one of the world’s top players is a story of dedication, hard work, and passion for the game. His calm demeanor at the board and respectful approach to opponents have earned him admiration among peers and fans alike. So’s contributions to chess extend beyond his achievements, as he continues to inspire young players worldwide with his humble beginnings and ascent to the top of the chess world. His legacy is not only marked by his victories but also by his character and the positive impact he has on the chess community.