Almira Skripchenko - The International Master with a Flair for Drama
Almira Skripchenko, known in the online chess circles as AlmiraS, is no ordinary chess player. Holding the prestigious title of International Master from FIDE, she combines tactical brilliance with daring risks, often leaving opponents both fascinated and frustrated.
About the Player
Almira has battled the ticking clock in hundreds of rapid and blitz games, achieving a peak blitz rating of an eye-popping 2710 in June 2019 — a rating few reach and even fewer maintain. Her rapid chess peak is not too shabby either, reaching 2635 in March 2021, proving she can switch gears from lightning-fast calculations to slightly more thoughtful duels.
Playing Style & Stats
Known for an impressive 85% endgame frequency, Almira favors battles that stretch minds and patience. Her games average around 75 moves when winning, showing endurance and precision. Yet, when she decides to surrender, it’s graceful — she never resigns early, maintaining dignity and fighting spirit.
Her comeback rate when down a piece is a phenomenal 86.9%, showcasing a stubborn refusal to fold. Though her longest losing streak sadly hits five games at times, the world knows even champions have their off days.
Notable Opponents & Performance
Almira has tangled most with opponents like nissou-ach (181 games) and ellipaehtz, with win rates varying from a respectable 40% down to the occasional wild 100% against other foes. Her opening repertoire is closely guarded—top secret they say—with nearly 420 blitz games behind this mystique.
When Does Almira Shine?
Surprisingly, her best time to play is the morning hour of 10:00 AM, where her mind is sharpest—although midnight shows some promising stats too, with nearly 50% win rate at 11 PM for blitz games. Perhaps she’s a night owl with a chessboard for a playground.
Recent Battles
On June 25, 2024, Almira decisively triumphed over nissou-ach with a brilliant Ruy Lopez maneuver. Despite blazing time controls, she showed patience until victory compelled her opponent’s resignation. Less fortunate was a recent encounter in September 2024, where she lost on time — reminding us even a chess gladiator can sometimes be caught by the clock.
The Verdict
AlmiraS is a chess force: resilient, tactical, and a bit mysterious. Whether she’s bulldozing through opponents in blitz or meticulously strategizing in rapid, she demonstrates that chess isn’t only a game of kings but also a stage for unforgettable artistry — checkmate is inevitable, but how you get there is what makes it memorable.