Grandmaster Axel Bachmann from Paraguay announced his retirement from chess at the 3rd International Open of Patagonia which finished this Saturday in Neuquen, Argentina.

Bachmann didn’t manage to defend his Champion title at the event which he considers as very important in his chess career, but he used the opportunity to declare his decision in the following notes.

“Very special and well organized – the 3rd Patagonia International Open concluded yesterday in Nuenquen, Argentina. I didn’t defend the title from the previous years, but I am more than satisfied with the performance I made here.

Without any doubts, this is very special tournament for me, so I am also going to take an advantage of this event to share with others my important decision: to give an indefinite standing to my career as a professional chess player.

I think it’s time to start and focus on the other areas of life, even though my passion and love for this game, filled with art, still exists. The last two tournaments in my career are going to be the 2017 Paraguayan Championship and the Floripa Open in January, commitments that have already been made.

The years I spent in this artistic sport were fantastic and I have only the words of thanks to this marvelous game – chess.

First, I’d like to thank to my family, who was always an unconditional support throughout my career. I’d like to thank to my beloved wife for being the base of our family, to the Feparaj and the SND for all the support during the recent years, to coaches, friends and people, that in one way or another had an impact on my chess life.

Temporarily retirement from high leveled competitions will allow me to devote more time to teaching – an activity that I enjoy a lot. I hope I will be able to share the knowledge and experiences that I acquired in competitions and during the many hours which I spent working with coaches and colleagues over the years. Do not hesitate to contact me in case you are interested!

Those who came to this point of my announcement know that I write with a little melancholy, but with much more positive energy for what is coming. Let’s go for more!”