Wesley So's Biography

Wesley So is a Filipino-American chess grandmaster, recognized as one of the brightest minds in the world of chess. Born on October 9, 1993, So became a chess prodigy in the Philippines, earning his grandmaster title at the age of 14, making him one of the youngest grandmasters in history. His breakthrough came in 2008 with his victory at the Dubai Open, which set the stage for his international career. In 2014, So made a significant move by transferring to represent the United States, where he quickly solidified his position among the world's elite players. Notably, he won the 2017 U.S. Chess Championship and the 2019 Fischer Random World Chess Championship, highlighting his adaptability and skill across chess formats. Wesley So is known for his calm demeanor and deep strategic understanding, making him a formidable opponent on the board. Off the board, he is passionate about reading, classical music, and online gaming. With a net worth estimated at $3 million in 2024, So's income comes mainly from tournament winnings, endorsements, and streaming. Despite facing controversies, such as a brief ban from the 2015 US Championship, he remains a respected figure in the chess community. Wesley So continues to inspire young players globally, not only for his achievements but also for his sportsmanship and dedication to the game.