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Mikhail Tal, USSR, 1960-61

Tal is considered by many to be the greatest attacking genius of modern chess. Born in Riga, Latvia, he became a Soviet master at 17, but his early tournaments were not outstanding.

But his style early on developed into one of sharp play, sacrifice, and speculative maneuvers. At age 21 he became the youngest ever Soviet champion, fishing against a field of eight grandmasters, earning him the title of international master in the process.

Tal held the world championship title for one year, beating Botvinnik by four points to win the honor. When he lost the title, ill health seems to have been a factor.

Always a dashing player, Tal became a very prominent challenger in the Olympiads. He was one of the most feared opponents of all time.