Polygar

Polygar is a term used in the context of chess to describe a chess player who has achieved the title of Grandmaster (GM) and also has a significant number of children. The term is often used to highlight the challenges and sacrifices that chess players, particularly women, face when balancing their careers with family life. The concept gained prominence in the 1990s and 2000s, with several high-profile female chess players, such as Susan Polgar, Judit Polgar, and Sofia Polgar, achieving Grandmaster titles while also having multiple children.

The Polgar sisters, Susan, Judit, and Sofia, are perhaps the most well-known examples of polygars. They are Hungarian-American and are renowned for their exceptional chess skills. Susan Polgar is one of the highest-rated female chess players of all time, while Judit Polgar is a former World Chess Champion. Sofia Polgar is also a Grandmaster and has achieved significant success in both chess and business.

The term "polygar" has been used to discuss the potential impact of having a large number of children on a chess player's career. Some argue that the demands of chess, including long hours of training and competition, can be difficult to balance with family responsibilities. Others point out that many successful chess players have managed to balance their careers with family life, and that the term can sometimes be used to stereotype or stigmatize women in chess.

Despite the challenges, many polygars have achieved significant success in both their chess careers and their personal lives. They serve as inspiration to many, demonstrating that it is possible to excel in a demanding field while also raising a family. The term "polygar" continues to be used in chess circles to discuss the unique experiences and challenges faced by chess players who have achieved high levels of success while also having a large number of children.