Bobby Fischer (USA 🇺🇸): an emblematic figure of chess during the Cold War, Fischer's 1972 victory over Soviet champion Boris Spassky was probably one of the high points in the history of both countries, reflecting the brilliance but also the controversy of this player.
This American triumph put an end to the decades of dominance of the Soviet Union. Fischer was born in Chicago in 1943 and later settled in Brooklyn, New York, where he grew up. Fischer learned chess when he was 6 years old. Early on in his life he displayed chess brilliance, resulting in him being the youngest grandmaster of all time at the age of 15. The American public showed high interest due to his genius and unique personality.
Fischer was known for his extreme preparation and his revolutionary theoretical innovations, especially in the opening of chess games. His play presence at the board was militantly aggressive, and he was therefore an incredibly difficult competitor to defeat. Having ruled chess for many decades, he retreated into obscurity following his refusal to defend his world title on the basis that he was in disagreement with the international chess federation (FIDE). He became world renowned following some controversial opinions - i.e., he said "This is all wonderful news. I want to see the US wiped out," following the attacks of September 11. In spite of the troubles he encountered later in life, Fischer's reputation is perhaps one of the greatest and most fascinating chess players ever.
References:
Biography.com
Chess.com
The Guardian
Encyclopedia Britannica