Gur Mittelman IM

Gur Mittelman - International Master Extraordinaire

Known in the chess world by the username mittel1, Gur Mittelman has carved out a niche as a formidable and titled International Master under FIDE’s banner. With a blitz peak rating soaring to an astonishing 2661 in March 2025, Mittelman’s electric playstyle is a force to be reckoned with across multiple time controls. Whether under the intense pressure of blitz or the thoughtful tempo of rapid play, this master tactician consistently dazzles with precision and cunning.

Playing Style & Strengths

Gur is no stranger to the intricate dance of chess openings, displaying an impressive 84.62% win rate with the Grunfeld Defense Exchange Modern Exchange Variation in blitz games—a variation that can intimidate even the most seasoned opponents. Known affectionately as a "Top Secret" strategist (quite literally, given the 1,935 blitz games analyzed under this label), Mittelman keeps his rivals guessing with unpredictable, often highly effective opening choices.

With an average of 72.7 moves per win and a knack for endgames (engaging in endgames in nearly 72% of games), Mittelman is a player not just reliant on flashy tactics but also endurance and strategic depth. The comeback rate of 83.84% speaks volumes about the resilience and psychological toughness—when pinned down, Mittelman refuses to roll over.

Statistics That Tell a Story

• Overall blitz wins: 1208, with nearly a third of games ending in draws (292)
• Rapid play peak rating: a fabulous 2508 in May 2025
• Bullet chess, while not the main focus, shows a humble competitive spirit with a peak rating of 1600

Quirks and Trivia

Gur prefers late-night battles, with the best time of day to play pegged uniquely at midnight (00:00)—because who doesn’t think sharper when the world is asleep? Their tilt factor sits at a modest 12, meaning it takes a serious opponent to rattle Mittelman off their game. And when games go south, the early resignation rate is a low 3.41%, proving Mittelman fights to the bitter end.

Notable Recent Games

One of Mittelman’s recent blitz triumphs showcased brilliant handling of the Alapin Sicilian Defense, defeating a 2555-rated opponent by resignation after a gritty 30-move battle. Another thrilling encounter ended in a checkmate against a 2385-rated adversary with a swift yet sharp tactical regime. However, not every game is a victory: sometimes even Mittelman must tip the king to opponents wielding the Neo-Grunfeld Defense, a bitter yet crucial learning experience in the journey of a grand strategist.

In Summary

Gur Mittelman may operate under the guise of “mittel1” online, but their play is anything but middling. An International Master with a passion for deep endgames, tactical brawls, and an uncanny ability to rebound, Mittelman is a chess player who reminds us all that the game is as much mental war as it is art. Refreshingly, their style balances high-volume blitz action with moments of thoughtful rapid mastery—enough to keep opponents glued to their seats and fans eagerly awaiting the next move.

Whether you’re a fellow chess fanatic or a casual admirer, keep an eye out for Gur Mittelman: the midnight warrior of the 64 squares, armed with puzzles, perseverance, and a perpetual thirst for victory.