Why compare Vladimir Kramnik and Garry Kasparov?

Kramnik's rivalry with Garry Kasparov culminated in their historic match in 2000, where Kramnik emerged victorious, marking a significant upset in chess history.

Vladimir Kramnik

Key numbers

  • FIDE Rating2753 (June 2026)
  • Peak Rating2817 (October 2016)
  • Peak RankingNo. 1 (January 1996)
  • Olympiad Gold Medals1

Top honours

  • Classical World Chess Champion2000–2006
  • Undisputed World Chess Champion2006–2007
  • Chess Oscar2000
VS

Garry Kasparov

Key numbers

  • Peak FIDE rating2851
  • Total months ranked No. 1255
  • Years active29

Top honours

  • World Chess Champion1985–2000 (undisputed)
  • FIDE World Champion1993–2000 (Classical)
  • Most consecutive professional tournament victories15
  • Chess Oscars11