Garry Kasparov is generally regarded as the greatest chess player ever. He was the thirteenth World Champion, holding the title between 1985 and 2000. His tournament record is second to none, featuring numerous wins in the world's major events, often by substantial margins. As well as his outstanding successes, Kasparov has constantly promoted the game; he has done more than anyone to popularise chess in modern times.

• 1On the Eve of BattleFirst acquaintance9Reconnaissance in force19Untouchable34Ascent382The First Match: 1984/85Opening preparation54Face to face (games 1-5)58Catastrophe (games 6-9)84The champion relaxes the pressure (games 10 15)116I am not yet ready to win (games 16-27)133The collapse of Karpov's dream (games 28-32)163Above the precipice (games 33-41)182The 'corpse' comes alive (games 42-48)210Stages of the battle2423The 49th GameShadow of Baguio246'We agreed on something quite different!'253To whose benefit?264'The match must take place!'2694The Second Match: 1985Surprise for the champion (games 1-3)277Double knock-down (games 4-5)296High tension (games 6-11)308Miracle gambit (games 12-16)340In classical style (games 17-19)364Hypnosis of the champion's title (games 20-23)377Start of a new era (game 24)405Index of Openings420Index of Complete Games422