Boards Quote by Viktor Korchnoi
“It is a gross overstatement, but in chess, it can be said I play against my opponent over the board and against myself on the clock.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Chess Magazine, 1990
Playing chess involves battling both the opponent’s moves and one’s own time pressure, highlighting internal and external challenges.
In simple terms: Chess is a mental duel against opponent and self.
Manage both external competition and internal pacing.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- tournament play
- training sessions
- time‑pressure situations
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance external focus with internal control?
- What strategies improve time awareness?
Self‑criticism can hinder performance.