Interview with Kingpin

Kingpin Magazine recently caught up with Alexander for an interview. The following is reprinted with the kind permission of Kingpin’s editor, Jonathan Manley.

What is your earliest memory of playing chess?
As early as in my previous life!

What is your most memorable game?
It looks like it is still ahead.

What was your worst defeat?
Against Tkachiev in New Delhi in 2000.

Who is your all-time chess hero?
None.

How do you relax?
I don’t work as most people do, but surprisingly I relax in the same way as they do - reading books, listening to music, etc.

What is your greatest fear?
To wake up and not to remember how pieces move.

Who is your favourite band/composer?
9-Inch Nails (USA) and Faith No More.

What is your favourite record?
Hurt by 9-Inch Nails.

What was the first record you bought?
Beatles.

What do you consider to be your greatest weakness as a chess player?
Lack of professionalism.

What is your greatest strength?
Optimism.

What is your most unappealing habit?
Forgetfulness.

Which book would you take to a desert island?
How to Beat Alexander Morozevich should this book exist by the time they send me to that island!

What are your five favourite chess books?
1) 'Manual for beginners' by Pozharsky. 2) 'Combinations' by Blokh. 3) 'Psycho-analysis of chess play' by Herbstman. 4) 'Defeat' by Zagainov 5) 'Winning Pawn Structures' by Baburin.

How would you characterise your chess-playing style?
Laid-back I often play as if I am having a break!

What is your favourite television programme?
How to become a millionaire.

What is your greatest extravagance?
Getting a rating of 2750, which nobody, including me, expected!

Against which player do you have the worst results?
Timman.

What was your most embarrassing moment at the chessboard?
Whenever I am unable to explain most of my moves after a game like in the game against Adams in the Corus 2001 tournament.

Which single thing would most improve the chess scene?
Nothing can help it!

In which particular tournament do you most like to compete?
Linares!

Who is the most irritating opponent you have faced?
All girls aged between 15 and 20.

Who is the most courteous person you have played?
Peter Svidler.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Not to believe too much what others say and to carry on with what I believe in.