Bulgarian Veselin Topalov became the third player in history to cross the magical 2800 ELO mark according to the new rating list enforced by Fide in the beginning of 2006.

Topalov thus emulated world's top rated Garry Kasparov of Russia and his compatriot Vladimir Kramnik who are the only other players in the history of chess to reach the 2800 ELO mark.

In the latest list, Topalov (2801) is second to now-retired Kasparov (2812) and is nine points ahead of Viswanathan Anand, who slipped to third position in the Fide rankings.

The fourth spot is held by Russian Peter Svidler who gained 25 points to reach 2765.

Amongst the women, Koneru Humpy became the second highest rated player behind Judit Polgar of Hungary whose position at the top of world ranking has remained undisputed for a long time now.

Despite quitting chess sports since March 2005, Russia's chess legend Kasparov retains his top position globally with 2812 points. Under the Fide rules, he will be dropped from the list after a full year elapses without him playing again.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!