Aj Hopkins

Aj Hopkins (hopkik13)

Aj Hopkins, known online as hopkik13, is a resilient and adventurous chess player who bravely navigates the battlefield of bits and bytes with a flair for both cunning tactics and occasional heroic comebacks. Rated highest at 1362 in Rapid chess back in late 2020, Aj has experienced the rollercoaster joys and heartbreaks typical of a determined competitor.

Playing Style & Strengths

With an impressive comeback rate of 74.29%, Aj is not one to throw in the towel easily. While his early resignation rate clocks in at about 6%, it’s clear he prefers to fight hard in many of his games, often refusing to concede without a battle. His endgames occur nearly half the time he plays (48.92% frequency), demonstrating a tenacious spirit even in the later stages of the match.

On average, he wins in approximately 45 moves but takes longer to succumb, averaging around 56 moves in losses. Those who think chess is only about brute force haven’t met Aj, who shows nuanced tactical awareness—winning 37% of his games even after losing a piece.

Preferred Openings: The Arsenal

Aj's opening choices read like a fanfiction of chess classics. In Blitz, he’s a frequent patron of the Alekhine's Defense (38 games) and favors the Center Game, where he enjoys one of his best win rates at 65.22%. The French Defense Normal Variation is also among his favorites, earning him a respectable 56.52% win rate—a solid choice for players who like to keep things spicy yet structured.

In Rapid games, the Queens Pawn Opening, Chigorin Variation shines brightest, boasting a 66.67% success rate, proving Aj’s love for a multifaceted, dynamic style that can confound opponents.

Rating Journey & Stats

Aj's rating trajectory is the stuff of chess legends—or at least epic tales of persistence. His Blitz rating started strong in 2021 but saw ups and downs, with a recent max rating around 336 in April 2025. His Rapid rating, once peaking spectacularly at 1362 in 2020, has matured into a steadier mid-500s range lately.

With a cumulative Blitz record of 245 wins to 294 losses, Aj has clearly spent more time learning from defeat than polishing trophies. But don’t be fooled; some of his opponents have felt his wrath with 100% loss records. (Insert evil grin here.)

Quirks & Fun Facts

• Aj's best time to play is curiously at 4:00 AM—because who needs sleep when you can checkmate?
• His winning streak record is an impressive 8 games, but his patience has also been tested during a painful 12-game losing streak.
• While Aj can unleash ferocity mid-game, his winning chances dip a bit against opponents ranked above him (18.53% wins), highlighting a humble approach to facing chess giants.

Recent Highlight: A 2025 Miniature

In a rapid 10-move game on May 24, 2025, Aj (white) brilliantly leveraged the Indian Game - Knights Variation, culminating in a slick knight sacrifice that forced his opponent’s resignation. The game is a testament to his willingness to dive into tactical skirmishes and his flair for the dramatic in critical moments.

Whether celebrated or still climbing the rating ladder, Aj Hopkins is a passionate player whose chess journey is marked by resilience, creativity, and a touch of late-night madness. Opponents beware: the knight on b5 might just jump when you least expect it!