An acclaimed American chess prodigy, he rose to international fame in 1972 by defeating Boris Spassky in a historic World Chess Championship, becoming the only American to hold the title. Known for his intense focus and groundbreaking strategies, his enigmatic personality and controversial views often overshadowed his genius. After his victory, he largely withdrew from public life, making sporadic appearances until his death in 2008, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of chess.