Groningen, Netherlands — 29 December 2025

Images & video: Oscar Bos, Etan Ilfeld 

Dutch FIDE Master Zyon Kollen claimed his first World Diving Chess Championship title on 29 December in Groningen, winning the 2025 World Diving Chess Championships — the largest event in the sport’s history. A key moment came in his victory against last year’s Dutch Champion, Sjoerd van Roon, a game that helped pave the way to the title. You can explore that decisive encounter here:

https://playstrategy.org/study/ZC6rv6YM

Kollen went into the sixth and final round on a perfect 5/5, needing only a draw to secure the title, which he achieved quickly. A former Dutch Diving Chess Champion, he has already indicated he is keen to return next year to defend his crown.

Jurrian de Graaf finished second, with Michel Timmer taking third.

The championships were oversubscribed and capped at 40 competitors due to the limited number of custom-built underwater chessboards. All players competed in a single open tournament.

The Women’s World Championship title was awarded to Josephine Damen (17), the highest-placed female competitor. The field reflected the sport’s wide appeal, with three ten-year-olds competing alongside experienced adult players.

Diving Chess combines traditional chess with underwater breath-hold diving. Players take turns diving to a submerged magnetic chessboard to make a move before resurfacing, creating a unique contest where strategy, stamina, and nerve are inseparable.

Invented by American chess master Etan Ilfeld, the sport turns every move into a battle not just against an opponent — but against oxygen itself.

Medalists: Joseph Maden (Women’s Champ), Michel Timmer (Bronze), Zyon Kollen (Gold), Jurrian de Graaf (Silver), Etan Ilfeld (Diving Chess inventor), Govert B. Pelikaan (Gronigen Chess Festival Oranizer)

Photo by Oscar Bos

Photo by Oscar Bos

Photo by Oscar Bos