Player Profile: Veselin Topalov

Full Name: Veselin Aleksandrov Topalov Peak

FIDE Rating: 2816 (July 2015)

Active Since: 1989

Federation: Bulgaria

Player Description Veselin Topalov is one of the most aggressive and attacking players in the current modern era. Known for his deep calculation,unorthodox playing style and fearless attacks,He has played more than 2490 games(1986-2025) and with a win rate of 58.2%, Topalov consistently sought winning chances—even at the cost of positional risks. A former World Champion and long-time top-5 player, he played with high energy, flair, and ambition that inspired a generation of chess fans. His games are characterized by sharp tactics, daring sacrifices, and relentless initiative. During his prime, he was a nightmare for even the most solid opponents and often led elite tournaments in decisive games.

Career scorecard:

FIDE World champion: (2005-2006).

• World Championship Cycle Appearances: 2005 FIDE World Championship: Topalov won the FIDE World Chess Championship in San Luis, earning the title.

• He played in the FIDE World Championship knockout tournaments in 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2004, and had a Candidates Match in 2002 against Peter Leko.

• 2006 World Chess Championship: He lost the title in a unification match against Vladimir Kramnik, who was the classical world champion.

• 2010 World Chess Championship: Topalov challenged Viswanathan Anand for the World Championship title, but lost the match.

National Championships:

• Bulgarian National Champion (1989, 1994).

• Winner of Bulgarian U20 Junior Championship.

Olympiad Medals:

• Individual Gold Medal (2000, Istanbul) – Board 1 performance rating over 2800.

• Team Silver Medal (1994, Moscow) – Bulgaria finished 2nd behind Russia.

• Individual Silver Medal (2004, Calvià).

Memorable Games: .

• Topalov vs. Vladimir Kramnik, Wijk aan Zee 2008: A devastating attacking win with the white pieces in a Queen's Gambit — one of his most famous victories.

• Topalov vs. Garry Kasparov, Linares 2005: Outplayed the World No. 1 in a tactical thriller, helping him win the tournament.

  
  

• Topalov vs. Judith Polgar, San Luis 2005: A crisp win showcasing initiative, calculation, and fearless middlegame aggression during his World Championship run.