Henrique Mecking, also known as Mequinho, is a Brazilian chess player who holds the titles of International Master (1967) and International Grandmaster (1972). He was one of the world's leading players in the 1970s, and is currently the top ranking Brazilian player.
Mecking was born on January 23, 1952 in Santa Cruz do Sul, Brazil. He earned his international master title at the age of 15 and grandmaster title at 19. His chess talent was noticed early when won the Brazilian Chess Championship at the age of 13.
After winning multiple South American championships, he came third in the 1970 Interzonal tournament at age 18, which advanced him to the Candidates matches. He subsequently lost to Viktor Korchnoi, however, this performance placed him in the world's top ten players list. Mecking participated in the World Chess Championship Candidates matches three times, in 1971, 1974 and 1977, but failed to qualify for the final.
In 1995, Mecking revealed that he had undergone a spiritual conversion and dedicated his victories to the Blessed Virgin Mary. His religious beliefs strongly guide his actions and decisions, and have been reportedly tied to his recovery from his illness. His career has been marked by several controversies, but his chess strength and potential have never been disputed.