Boris Gelfand

Boris Gelfand's career is a study in perseverance. He is one of only a few players to have qualified as a World Championship candidate six times, a record that speaks to his consistency at the highest level. His 28-year streak in the world's top 30 is a testament to his enduring skill, placing him among the game's elite for an exceptionally long period. His 2012 World Championship match, though a loss, is remembered as one of the most tightly contested in recent history. In 2026, he became the first Israeli inducted into the World Chess Hall of Fame, a fitting honor for a player who has inspired generations with his dedication and sportsmanship.