Go Seigen: The Era-Defining Genius
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In the world of Go, few names shine brighter than Go Seigen. Considered by many to be the greatest player of the 20th century, Go Seigen pushed the boundaries of the ancient game to new heights.
A Prodigy from China
Born Wu Qingyuan in 1914 in China, Go first picked up Go at age 9, a late start for a future master. Yet his talent was undeniable. By 12, Go was defeating top Japanese opponents, earning him an invitation to pursue a professional career in Japan.
Pioneering a Go Revolution in Japan
Arriving in 1928, Go immediately earned a 3-dan rank. Despite frail health, he pioneered revolutionary fuseki openings alongside his friend Kitani Minoru, breaking from tradition. This “Shin Fuseki” movement brought Go fame.
Dominating the Go World
Throughout the 1930s and 40s, Go dominated the Go world, defeating all rivals in legendary jubango matches. Facing top players like Kitani and Fujisawa Hosai, Go won game after game, forcing opponents into handicaps. Out of 11 jubango matches, Go lost only one.
Taking on the Legendary Honinbo Shusai
Go's brilliance culminated in a 1933 match against Honinbo Shusai Meijin, the long-time champion. Despite controversies over Shusai’s adjournment tactics, Go awed Japan with his bold fuseki.
Later Career and Legacy
As the years passed, Go continued besting rivals like Sakata Eio and Takagawa Shukaku. He captured numerous titles while revolutionizing modern Go theory. Though an injury slowed him, he still won the prestigious Okura Prize in 1967.
Upon retiring in 1983, Go cemented his legacy as arguably the greatest Go genius of the 20th century. But he continued promoting the game until passing in 2014 at age 100. Go Seigen's brilliance and innovations will forever influence the Go world.
Go Seigen’s Major English Publications from Amazon
Go Stones Never Age: Go Seigen Tsumego Collection:
Kamakura: The ten-game match between Go Seigen and Kitani Minoru 1939 ~ 1941:
The Survivors: Matches between Go Seigen and Iwamoto Kaoru 1948 ~ 1954:
