Matthew Fishbein is a titled American chess player who earned the National Master title from National. Active across Bullet, Blitz, Rapid, and Daily formats, they are known for a practical, sometimes audacious style and a calm presence at the board. Off the board they’re friendly and quick with a quip, turning club nights into lively instructional sessions as well as games.
Blitz is Matthew's preferred time control, where clock management and endgame training shine. They’ve shown resilience in both winning and losing streaks and are known for translating small advantages into sustained pressure. Their endgame frequency sits high, reflecting a knack for converting tough positions as the pace accelerates.
Opening repertoire highlights
Sicilian Defense (varieties) — a flexible backbone in Blitz play
London System and related setups — used to steer games into solid, practical endgames
Czech Defense and Colle System variants — for surprise value and solid fundamentals
Notable achievements
Matthew earned the National Master title from National, cementing their status as a strong competitor in national circuits. Their Blitz peak has reached the upper 2400s in recent years, illustrating a sustained period of high performance. Notable streaks include a longest winning run of 16, and a reputation for strong endgame technique and calm under time pressure.
Matthew's journey spans over a decade of competitive play. They continue to study openings, sharpen endgames, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow players.