Igor Janik is a Polish chess Grandmaster (GM), a title he achieved in 2001 based on his performance throughout 1999 to 2001 in international tournaments. Born on 19 May 1968 in Auschwitz, Janik developed a passionate interest in chess from a young age. He won the Polish Junior Chess Championship in 1986, further establishing his talent in the field.
His playing career involves representing Poland in major international tournaments including the World Chess Championship and the Chess Olympiad. Winning a bronze medal in the 1994 Olympiad and a silver medal in the 1997 World Team Chess Championship, Janik cemented his reputation as a formidable player in the international chess scene.
Apart from being a seasoned player, Janik is also a trained physical education teacher. He has a Master’s degree from the Academy of Physical Education in Krakow and a Doctorate degree from the Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw. His academic background underpins his dedication to teaching chess to children and young adults in addition to his career as a professional chess player.
Janik had his biggest achievement in 2001 when he was awarded the title of Grandmaster (GM) by the World Chess Federation (FIDE). He has consistently ranked among the top 100 players in Poland and has multiple times been ranked in the top 25. Has written several books on chess and regularly conducts lectures and training sessions. Janik also contributes to chess magazines providing annotated games and analytical articles.