Abdulrafiu Ahmed-Rufai (aka Lil_duns)
Abdulrafiu Ahmed-Rufai, fondly known in the chess world as Lil_duns, is a player who has passionately danced with the 64 squares over the recent years. Starting out strong in 2023 with a rapid rating soaring as high as 938, Abdulrafiu proved he’s no stranger to the tactical battlefield, often opting for a "Top Secret" opening strategy that has mystified foes and friends alike.
With a mixed bag of results—6 wins, 8 losses, and a single draw in rapid games during 2023—he quickly showed resilience. Even as his rapid ratings dipped over time, his love for chess did not waver, continuing to log an impressive 236 rapid games in 2025 alone. His bullet and daily chess ratings tell a story of someone who adapts and fights on multiple fronts, peaking at 652 in bullet and maintaining a solid 604 in daily formats.
Playing Style & Highlights
Known for an early resignation rate of 6.85%, Abdulrafiu is the kind of player who knows when to fight and when to gracefully bow out—respecting chess as an art and not just a battle. His average game length suggests he's in it for a good, strategic tussle, with over 53 moves per win. Looking at his comeback rate of nearly 60%, Lil_duns is not easily defeated and often rallies back with dramatic flair. Lose a piece? No worries. He boasts an incredible 100% win rate after losing a piece, making him a nightmare for opponents who think they've snagged an advantage.
Psychological Profile
Abdulrafiu's psychological resilience is notable. A tilt factor of 10 means he can get frustrated, but his win difference between rated and casual play (a whopping 44%) shows he thrives under pressure and loves the adrenaline rush of rated matches. Whether it’s a Monday slump or a Thursday surge (where he hits a 70% win rate!), Lil_duns knows how to adjust his mindset to keep the trophies coming.
The Opponents & Records
Facing a colorful array of competitors, Abdulrafiu is undefeated against several recent opponents like envino, chaggan2, and zingat18, showcasing sharp tactical prowess. Yet, he has tough battles against rivals like rizz-habh where winning is more challenging, keeping the games exciting and unpredictable.
Fun fact
When not busy plotting checkmates or defending tricky positions, Abdulrafiu probably contemplates the ultimate mystery: what exactly is in the "Top Secret" opening he favors so much? Maybe one day he'll reveal his secrets—until then, opponents beware!
All in all, Lil_duns is a dedicated chess enthusiast who blends perseverance, cunning, and a touch of humor into a compelling chess journey. Keep an eye on this player—chess boards everywhere are sure to witness his upcoming strategic escapades!
