German GM Vincent Keymer spoke about his financial situation in an interview with Die Presse. Keymer named his sources of support, and compared himself to other players from the world’s Top 10.

Vincent Keymer

Vincent Keymer

Germany's No. 1

“I have a sponsorship contract with an esports organization. In addition, one company has supported me since childhood, and I also receive some help from the chess federation.

I have now reached a level where coaching services are very expensive, and sponsorship funds are no longer enough to fully cover them. So, part of the prize money has to be reinvested into preparation.

Other players in the Top 10 often receive more financial support, which allows them to maintain a full team.

But recent years have been so successful that I don’t have financial problems. I can even save money.”

Vincent Keymer is World’s No. 6 and Germany’s No. 1. He plays for the esports organization BASILISK since May 2025. Keymer earned approximately $950,000 in prize money over his career according to Liquipedia.net. Among his largest prizes are Freestyle Chess Grand Slam 2025 Weissenhaus, the Global Chess League 2025, the GCT: Super Chess Classic Romania 2026, and others.

Credit: Michal Walusza / Norway Chess