By the time a player becomes a Grandmaster, almost all of his training time is dedicated to work on this first phase. The opening is the only phase that holds out the potential for true creativity and doing something entirely new.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of the opening phase in chess, where creativity can flourish. Grandmasters invest significant time in mastering this phase, which sets the stage for their success.
In this quote, Garry Kasparov reveals that the journey to becoming a Grandmaster in chess requires extensive dedication to the opening phase of the game. He highlights that this initial stage is unique because it allows for innovative and creative strategies, setting the tone for the rest of the match. By focusing on the openings, players cultivate their ability to think outside the box and approach challenges with originality, which is crucial to achieving success in chess and beyond.
In practice
During a chess tournament, a commentator might reference this quote to underscore the importance of creative openings.
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