Aleksandar Indjić, a grandmaster who has long been a force in the chess world, has reached a new milestone in his illustrious career by claiming the title of European Chess Champion. His victory not only cements his place among the greats but also serves as a testament to the discipline, dedication, and emotional depth that defines his journey in chess.
For Indjić, who hails from Serbia, chess has always been more than just a game. “I started playing primarily to spend time with my father, who is also a grandmaster, and my brother,” he recalls while talking to The Region. While family matches have become a rarity, the sense of shared passion remains. “These days, I rarely play with them, but I enjoy watching them from the sidelines,” he adds.
Known for his thoughtful approach both on and off the board, Indjić describes chess as “a battle beneath the surface,” where intense strategies and hidden emotions collide. This perspective resonates with the very essence of the game, rooted in the Persian term shah mat—”the king is dead.”
Indjić’s appreciation for chess extends beyond strategy to aesthetics. “My favourite piece is the knight because of the elegance it brings to sudden attacks,” he shares. Recently, he’s also found himself drawn to playing with the black pieces. “Although white has the opening advantage, I find the game clearer from the black side,” he explains.
“My favourite piece is the knight because of the elegance it brings to sudden attacks,” shares Aleksandar Indjic, European Chess Champion
Reflecting on his career, Indjić acknowledges the sacrifices that come with his level of commitment. “I hope to have more time for my emotional life in the future, which has taken a back seat in recent years due to chess,” he admits. His candour reveals the personal cost of pursuing excellence in a game that demands absolute focus.
On the subject of tournaments, Indjić explains the unpredictability of competition. “There are different types of events. At some, you know all your opponents in advance, while at others, you only learn who you’ll face the night before,” he says, highlighting the need for adaptability.
Indjić is also an advocate for equality in chess, pointing to the achievements of Judit and Zsuzsa Polgár as proof of women’s immense potential. “This shows that chess requires complete dedication—something that, unfortunately, remains more of a privilege for men than for women,” he notes, adding his hope for greater inclusivity in the future.
As Indjić basks in the glow of his European triumph, his journey serves as an inspiration. His unique blend of strategic brilliance, artistic appreciation for the game, and personal humility make him a true champion—not just on the board but in life.
