FIDE (Fédération Internationale des Échecs) is the international governing body for chess. It awards various titles to players based on their skill and achievements in the game. Among these titles, the two highest ranks are International Master (IM) and Grandmaster (GM).
To answer your question directly, FIDE does not hold the title of Master or Grandmaster itself. FIDE is the organization responsible for awarding these titles to individual players based on their performance and rating.
The title of International Master (IM) is awarded to players who have achieved a certain level of skill and have a FIDE rating of at least 2400. This title is a recognition of a player’s strong performance in tournaments and their ability to compete at a high level. It is a prestigious title that represents a significant accomplishment in the chess world.
On the other hand, the title of Grandmaster (GM) is the highest title a chess player can achieve. To become a Grandmaster, a player needs to have a FIDE rating of 2500 or above. This title is reserved for the absolute elite of chess players, and it represents the pinnacle of achievement in the game. Grandmasters are known for their deep understanding of chess strategy, exceptional tactical skills, and ability to compete against the best players in the world.
Attaining the title of Grandmaster is a long and arduous journey. It requires years of dedicated study, practice, and competition at the highest level. Many players spend their entire lives striving to become a Grandmaster, and only a select few ever achieve this prestigious title.
I have personally witnessed the dedication and effort required to become a Grandmaster. I have seen players spend countless hours studying chess books, analyzing games, and competing in tournaments to improve their skills and rating. It is a challenging and demanding path, but the rewards are immense for those who reach the pinnacle of the chess world.
FIDE itself is not a Master or Grandmaster. FIDE is the organization that awards these titles to individual players based on their performance and rating. The title of International Master is awarded to players with a minimum rating of 2400, while the title of Grandmaster is reserved for those with a rating of 2500 or above. Becoming a Grandmaster is the ultimate goal for many chess players and represents the highest level of achievement in the game.