Why compare Bobby Fischer and Tigran Petrosian?

Fischer faced Tigran Petrosian in a significant match during the Candidates tournament, showcasing the intense competition between American and Soviet players.

Bobby Fischer

Key numbers

  • Peak rating2785
  • Peak rankingNo. 1
  • World Championship matches1 (1972)
  • U.S. Championships8 titles

Top honours

  • World Chess Champion1972–1975
  • GrandmasterAchieved in 1958
  • U.S. Chess ChampionshipsWon a record eight titles
  • Perfect Score in U.S. Championship11-0 in 1964
VS

Tigran Petrosian

Key numbers

  • World Championship Matches1
  • Total Matches4

Top honours

  • World Chess Champion1963–1969
  • Soviet ChampionMultiple titles