Player's Profile: Pal Benko

Full Name: Pal Benko

Peak FIDE Rating: 2530 (July 1973)

Active Since: 1948 (became Grandmaster in 1958)

Federation: United States (originally Hungary until 1958)

Player Description:

Pal Benko, born on July 14, 1928, in Amiens, France, and raised in Hungary, was one of the most important chess players, authors, and composers of the 20th century. Known for his deep positional understanding, original ideas, and vast opening contributions, Benko became a Grandmaster in 1958 and represented the United States from 1962 onward after defecting from Hungary during the Cold War.

Benko is widely respected not only for his achievements over the board but also for his selflessness and contributions to the development of chess. Most notably, in 1970, he gave up his spot in the Interzonal Tournament for Bobby Fischer , a gesture that played a key role in Fischer’s path to the World Championship title in 1972. That single act remains one of the most generous in chess history.

As a player, Benko was a two-time candidate for the World Championship and was known for popularizing the Benko Gambit, which is still widely played today. He was also a prolific endgame study composer and author, writing for Chess Life and publishing several instructional books that are still valued by players and trainers worldwide.

Career Scorecard:

World Championship Cycle Appearances:

• Candidates Tournament: 1959, 1962

• Interzonal Tournaments: 1955 (Gothenburg), 1962 (Stockholm), 1964 (Amsterdam), 1967 (Sousse), 1970 (Palma de Mallorca — withdrew to allow Fischer entry)

National Championships:

• Hungarian Champion: 1948

• U.S. Championship: Tied 1st in 1961, multiple top finishes throughout the 1960s and 70s

• U.S. Open Champion: 8-time winner (record)

  
  

Olympiad Medals:

• Represented Hungary: 1952

• Represented the United States: 1962–1972

• Team Silver Medal: 1966 Olympiad (Havana)

  
  

Tournaments Won:

• U.S. Open: 8 titles (1955, 1957, 1958, 1961, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967)

• Multiple first-place finishes in American and international events

• Regular top performer at Interzonals and invitational tournaments

Memorable Games:

1. Benko vs. Fischer – U.S. Championship 1963/64

In this iconic game, Benko played the black side of the King's Indian and managed to draw against the young Bobby Fischer, who went on to win the championship with a perfect 11/11. Benko's resilience and deep understanding of positional play were on full display in this memorable encounter.

2. Benko vs. Tal – Candidates Tournament 1959

Playing against former World Champion Mikhail Tal, Benko won a brilliant attacking game where he sacrificed material for long-term initiative. His aggressive handling of the Sicilian Defense led to a famous win, showing his ability to challenge even the most dynamic players.

3. Benko vs. Portisch – U.S. Open 1965

In this classic, Benko unveiled deep preparation in the opening and used the Benko Gambit to full effect. He outplayed fellow Hungarian GM Lajos Portisch with precise calculation and showcased why the gambit that now bears his name became so influential in modern chess.