The World Backgammon Championship is the most prestigious annual competition in backgammon. It was first held in 1967 in Las Vegas, United States. Since 1979, the championship has been held in Monte Carlo, Monaco, where it became the universally recognised world championship event for the sport.[1]
Overview
The tournament attracts several hundred players from around the world and includes multiple divisions, including championship, intermediate and beginner events. In addition to the open championship, women's, doubles and team competitions are also organised in connection with the event.[1]
The early editions of the championship were held in Las Vegas from 1967 to 1975. Between 1975 and 1978, another major world championship event was held in the Bahamas, while Monte Carlo hosted the European Open Championship. In 1979, the two competing circuits were merged into a single world championship in Monte Carlo.[2]
The Monte Carlo championship is typically played over one week and includes knockout rounds, consolation events and last-chance brackets. Main championship matches are usually played to a fixed number of points, with later rounds and finals played over longer formats.[1]
History
The first recognised world championship in backgammon was held in Las Vegas in 1967, with Tim Holland becoming the inaugural champion. Holland also won the 1968 and 1971 editions. There was no championship in 1969 or 1970.[3]
From 1975 to 1978, the Bahamas hosted the American-based world championship, while Monte Carlo staged the European Open Championship. In 1979, promoter Lewis Deyong proposed combining the two events, leading to Monte Carlo becoming the permanent host of the World Backgammon Championship.[2]
By the 21st century, the World Backgammon Championship had become one of the leading events on the international backgammon circuit and one of the most prestigious titles in mind sports.[1]
List of champions
The following is a list of world backgammon champions.[4][5][6]
