Meet Dejan Joveljić, the world's best soccer chess player who seamlessly combines the strategic brilliance of chess with the finesse of football. In this interview, we get into Dejan's early chess beginnings, his dual passion for football and chess, and the intersection of these two worlds. Learn about Dejan's favorite chess player and footballer. Join us for the cup of coffee with the fascinating mind behind the soccer chess maestro, Dejan Joveljić.
Outpost Question: At what age did you start playing chess, and who taught you the basics?
DJ: I started playing chess at 5-6 years old, and like most kids, my dad taught me. We used to play together every day, and my grandfather joined us too.
Outpost Question: Considering your intelligence at that age, would you have chosen to pursue chess or stick with football?
DJ: Definitely not, haha! I would choose football every time. However, chess is my favorite hobby, and I love spending my free time learning and playing it.
Outpost Question: As the world's best soccer chess player, name at least three footballers you think could give you a good challenge?
DJ: It seems I am, honestly, I don't know who I could pick to compete with me in a 3+0 time control. Maybe Simen Agdestein, but he retired from football a long time ago, haha. Jokes aside, I'm not sure if I'd stand a chance against him. I've noticed many athletes enjoy playing, like Christian Pulisic, Mohamed Salah, and Luka Doncic. My online rating varies between 2200-2400, so I think I'd have better chances against them. Also, our national team player, Srdjan Babic, plays really well with a rating of 1600-1700 online.
Outpost Question: What are the similarities between football and chess?
DJ: You always have to think a few moves ahead of your opponent, be patient, and wait for their mistakes.
Outpost question: Do you plan to professionally engage in chess after finishing your football career?
DJ: Honestly, alongside football, I want to continue playing chess, of course, whenever my obligations allow. During breaks, I'll try to organize more chess tournaments to promote this wonderful sport.
Outpost Question: Who is your favorite chess player and favorite footballer?
DJ: Magnus Carlsen is undoubtedly my favorite chess player, and when it comes to footballers, I don't have a favorite.
Dejan Joveljić is also a part of the Outpost Chess team, both as a member of the Outpost board team and, of course, as an Outpost user.
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We wish him the best possible career, both in football and in chess.
Yours, Outpost team