Profile Summary: Patrick Gong (aka Ekko_li)
Meet Patrick Gong, an International Master (IM) whose chess journey is as fascinating as the games he plays. Known online as Ekko_li, Patrick has battled knights, queens, and time controls across multiple years, steadily climbing the ranks with a blend of grit and finesse. His reputation on the digital battlefield is legendary, with a blitz peak rating soaring as high as 2823 in 2024 — a number that many grandmasters only dream of!
From Humble Beginnings to International Master
Patrick's chess tale started modestly in 2013 with daily games rating around 1300. However, like a well-executed fork, his skill quickly gained ground. By 2019, his daily chess rating nearly hit 1955, and his blitz prowess was already shaking the online chess world. With relentless practice, tactical sharpness, and a knack for endgame wizardry, he earned the prestigious title of International Master from FIDE, proudly representing the class of dedicated masters.
Playing Style & Chess Personality
Never one to resign prematurely, Patrick’s early resignation rate is a mere 1.57%, showing his fighting spirit brimming like a pawn ready to promote. His games tend to be marathon battles, averaging about 75 moves per win, hinting at both patience and precise calculation. He's especially dangerous at night — his best time to strike on the chessboard is around 9 PM, proving that sometimes the darkest hours produce the brightest ideas.
Patrick’s games are known for a high frequency of endgames (76.78%), where he demonstrates exceptional skill to outmaneuver opponents who dare to enter the late stages. His renowned comeback rate of 87.26% speaks volumes: even after losing a piece, he can turn the tables like a magician pulling winning tricks out of thin air. Tilt is real, but with a factor of 13, Patrick stays remarkably composed under pressure — enough to make even Magnus Carlsen nod in approval.
Online Warrior & Opener Extraordinaire
Online, Patrick is a blitz beast famous for consistent battling in the “Top Secret” openings – a mysterious playbook that has netted him almost 4,100 wins out of over 8,300 blitz games! His win rates in rapid and bullet formats also reflect his flexible adaptability, conquering opponents across every time control. His habit of winning by timeout or resignation suggests an intense pressure game that grinds foes down either on the clock or on the board.
Fun Fact:
Patrick’s longest winning streak spans an impressive 16 games, a feat that would make chess engines question their existence. He’s also faced some of the same opponents repeatedly, turning friendly rivalries into epic sagas – including a notable 168 battles against ho_jei. The results? Let’s just say Patrick has more tricks up his sleeve than a magician at a chess convention.
Recent Highlights
In November 2024, Patrick notched a stunning victory in a live chess blitz game with a clever handling of the Alapin Sicilian Defense, showing his mastery in both strategy and clock management by winning on time against a 2550-rated opponent. That’s not just a win — it’s a statement.
In Summary
Patrick Gong is a chess player who embodies determination, strategic depth, and a passion for the game that’s truly infectious. Whether grinding out grueling endgames or blitzing through complex middlegames, his blend of high-level skill and unyielding spirit makes him a formidable figure in the chess world.
Keep your kings protected and your queens close—Patrick’s coming for them!