The days when it was possible to win a serious game only by merit of sporting character or depth of chess understanding have vanished forever. Chess knowledge has become dominant, bypassing all the other factors that contribute to success.

I still remember Botvinnik's reaction to each of my games, right from the opening moves. At first he would express amazement, then annoyance, and, finally irritation.

But how difficult it can be to gain the desired full point against an opponent of inferior strength, when this is demanded by the tournament position!

Combinations with a queen sacrifice are among the most striking and memorable.

No, I do not want to sacrifice four days for two games. My time is too valuable to do that

My studies with Botvinnik brought me immense benefit, particularly the homework assignments which forced me to refer to chess books and to work independently.

Bulgaria is the first state that has been awarded for its excellent fight against iodine deficiency by UNICEF.