Austrian Grandmaster Felix Blohberger has raised a significant alarm about the struggles of professional chess players in Europe. In a recent YouTube video titled “Being a Chess Professional (in Europe) sucks,” he shared some tough truths about the financial challenges faced by players, especially those ranked outside the top 30. Blohberger’s comments are stirring conversations about the future of chess in Europe and whether it can remain a viable career path for aspiring players.
European Chess Players Facing Hardships
Felix Blohberger’s video highlighted that it’s becoming quite difficult for many chess players in Europe to make a living just from playing the game they love. The prize money for tournaments, especially for those not among the elite, has hardly changed over the years, leaving many players struggling financially. He shared that unlike in some other parts of the world, European players often see little government support or recognition, which makes competing even tougher.
Stagnant Prize Money Pulled Under the Spotlight
- Blohberger pointed out the frustrating reality of stagnant prize money in European tournaments.
- He explained that while the average salary in other professions rises, the earnings for many chess professionals remain stuck.
- Compared to Asia, where players get significant awards, European players find it hard to earn enough to support themselves.
The Disparity in Recognition
While countries like Uzbekistan and India shower their chess champions with rewards like apartments, cars, and large cash prizes, Blohberger emphasized that European players receive significantly less recognition and support. He mentioned how different the landscape looks for players in Asia, who can benefit from substantial backing from their governments and chess federations, allowing them to pursue chess full-time without severe financial stress.
Impact of Blohberger’s Claims
Blohberger’s statements have struck a chord in the chess community, sparking debates about how to improve the situation for players in Europe. His remarks suggest a need for reforms that could potentially lead to increased prize money and more government recognition for chess professionals. Without significant changes, he fears that many talented players will be forced to abandon their chess dreams altogether.
Chess Rewards Across the Globe
| Country | Support Offered to Players |
|---|---|
| Uzbekistan | Apartments, cars, and cash for Olympiad successes. |
| India | Rs 3.2 crore rewards for Chess Olympiad winners. |
| Austria | Limited government recognition and stagnant prizes. |
The Future of Chess in Europe
The concerns raised by Blohberger are largely echoed by other players and chess enthusiasts. Many fear that without prompt action, professional chess in Europe may face a turbulent future. Discussions prompted by this video aim to bring attention to these issues and foster change for the betterment of both current and future generations of chess players. As discussions continue, the hope is that Chess can thrive not just in Asia but in Europe too, offering great opportunities for players across the continent.
