Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, commonly known as MVL, is a French chess grandmaster and one of the top players in the world. He became a grandmaster at just 14 years old and quickly established himself as a leading figure in the chess community. With a peak rating of 2819 in 2016, he holds the distinction of being the seventh-highest-rated player in chess history.

MVL’s playing style is marked by his deep opening preparation, especially in the Grünfeld Defence, where he is considered a world expert. His versatility extends to rapid and blitz formats, where he’s renowned for his quick thinking and precision under time pressure.

Throughout his career, Vachier-Lagrave has consistently achieved remarkable results. He won the World Junior Chess Championship in 2009 and became a five-time winner of the prestigious Biel Chess Tournament. His success extends to elite events like the Sinquefield Cup, which he won in 2017 and 2021, and he has consistently represented France in Chess Olympiads and European Championships, winning numerous medals for his country.

In recent years, MVL has continued to perform at a high level. In 2021, he won the World Blitz Championship, showcasing his prowess in fast-paced formats. In 2024, he remains in the top 20, with a FIDE rating of 2731, still a formidable competitor in both classical and rapid chess events worldwide.