Matthias Bluebaum

German GM

“Of course, it’s nice not to have to do everything yourself. You see some annoying line and you can just tell someone, ‘You have to look at this stuff while I go get some sleep’. Of course that’s kind of nice, but at the end of the day you also still have to play chess yourself. It does help a bit, but it doesn’t completely change things.

The fundraising was handled by the German Chess Federation. They organized crowdfunding, contributed themselves, and the state also helped. In the end, the amount turned out to be much larger than I expected. Although, it’s probably still less than what other participants have. In India, for example, I think the support is much greater. But I’m very happy because I was able to prepare the way I wanted without thinking too much about money.

The support is motivating, but on the other hand it can also increase pressure. People supported you, and if you play the poorest event of your lifetime then people won’t exactly be happy. Although people who donate money understand that nothing is guaranteed. In any case, it’s just nice and motivating.

And of course, ‘The Great Bluebaum Sweep’… I’m not sure who started this actually. I guess it’s not the most likely result for me to score 14 out of 14, but I’ll try my best to keep the fans happy!”