The Real Deal

“He is the real deal,” said GM Susan Polgar of the 15-year old GM Wesley So.

The statement came right after GM So’s loss to 19-year old Norwegian GM Jon Ludwig Hammer in Round 2 of Spice Cup 2009 Group A.

To be called a strong player is something, but to be called the “Real Deal” is something else.

And for that statement to come from somebody whose name is GM Susan Polgar made it more inspiring.

Indeed, GM So is impressing the world of chess not just because of his strength but more so of his fighting attitude over the board. GM So’s style of game is simply a pure delight – a real fire on board!

It’s like seeing Michael Jordan sticking out his tongue while gracefully flying for a lay up shot.

It’s like seeing Tiger Woods pumping his fist after sinking a putt from the bunker.

GM Susan could not be wrong. Yes, GM So, indeed, is the “Real Deal.”