Elizabeth Carter
Austrian Grandmaster Felix Blohberger has raised significant concerns regarding the growing financial struggles of chess players in Europe, especially those unable to break into the top rankings. His recent remarks shine a light on a topic that many chess enthusiasts might overlook—the tough reality faced by many professional players who find it exceedingly difficult to make a living solely from playing chess.
Things Must Change to Keep Professional Chess Alive in Europe
In a candid YouTube video titled “Being a Chess Professional (in Europe) sucks,” Blohberger points out that stagnant prize money has become a huge hurdle for players outside the elite ranks. He passionately argues that many players are almost left with no choice but to pursue additional jobs to support themselves. Competitors ranked below the top 30 are particularly impacted, as Blohberger emphasizes the financial instability that is now a part of their careers.
Why Are European Players Struggling?
Just like in many sports, prize money can be the difference between a sustainable career and financial hardship. Unfortunately, Blohberger notes that European tournament prizes have not kept up with the rising costs of living. For instance, the German Grandmaster Frederik Svane received merely €3,000 for an impressive performance that won him an individual gold at the 2024 Olympiad, which Blohberger suggests is shockingly low considering the sacrifices players make.
Comparisons with Asian Chess Players
Blohberger drew a stark contrast between European players and their counterparts in Asia, where government support and sponsorship are much more substantial. He highlighted significant rewards offered to successful Asian players, including cash prizes, apartments, and cars, like those Uzbekistan chess players received after winning the 2022 Olympiad. Meanwhile, many European players are left without similar recognition or financial backing.
A Call for Change and New Opportunities
In light of these challenges, Blohberger encourages a revitalization of interest and participation in chess. He believes that promoting formats like rapid and blitz chess could increase engagement and funding opportunities in the sport. Besides traditional tournaments, he urges lower-ranked players to consider creating content online as an additional source of income, helping them escape the financial difficulties many currently face.
A Future for Chess in Europe?
As the conversation around the financial sustainability of chess grows, Blohberger’s message is clear: without immediate changes and support for players, the future of chess in Europe could be jeopardized. His remarks have sparked important discussions about how the game can be made more accessible and financially viable for current and aspiring chess players across the continent. The situation requires not just awareness, but action to ensure chess does not fade away from the professional landscape in Europe.
Summary of Key Points
- Austrian GM Felix Blohberger highlights financial struggles faced by European chess players.
- Many players outside the top 30 are finding it hard to sustain themselves on chess earnings alone.
- Stagnant prize money and high living costs are major contributing factors to the crisis.
- Blohberger contrasts European players’ experiences with those in Asia, where support is more generous.
- He advocates for more innovative chess formats and content creation as ways to address these challenges.
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