9dan

9dan refers to a rank in various East Asian board games, most notably Go and Shogi. This rank represents the highest level of proficiency attainable by a player. In Go, the 9 dan rank is divided into amateur and professional levels. Amateur 9 dan players are considered extremely strong among non-professionals, often demonstrating strategic understanding and tactical skill comparable to professional players. Professional 9 dan is the pinnacle of the professional Go world, held by only the most elite players who have achieved exceptional results in major tournaments and competitions. Similarly, in Shogi, 9 dan is the highest professional rank, signifying a master of the game. Achieving 9 dan in either game requires years of dedicated study, practice, and competitive experience, along with a deep understanding of complex strategies and patterns. The title of 9 dan is a significant honor and a testament to a player's mastery of the game.