Dirk Schiemann

The Professor of Backgammon

Super Grandmaster S3 Dirk Schiemann stands as a titan in the world of backgammon, renowned for his strategic prowess and analytical mindset. Born with a natural affinity for the game, Schiemann embarked on his journey in the realm of backgammon at the tender age of 19. While pursuing his passion for mathematics at the University of Dortmund, he ventured into the competitive landscape of backgammon tournaments, swiftly ascending to prominence.

In the mid-nineties, Schiemann transitioned into the realm of professional backgammon, marking the onset of an illustrious career. His breakthrough came in 1996 when he clinched victory in the prestigious international tournament held in Rio de Janeiro, foreshadowing the greatness that lay ahead.

Throughout the late nineties and early 2000s, Schiemann cemented his status among the elite, consistently ranking among the top ten Giants of Backgammon. His peak came in 2003, when he ascended to the coveted position of number 3 Giant, a testament to his unparalleled skill and dedication.

In a surprising turn of events in 2004, Schiemann made the decision to pivot from backgammon to professional poker, seeking fresh challenges and opportunities. For nearly a decade, he immersed himself in the world of poker, honing his strategic acumen and adding another chapter to his remarkable journey.

However, Schiemann’s passion for backgammon never waned, leading to his resurgence in 2017. Returning to his roots, he embarked on a quest for mastery, delving into the intricacies of the game with renewed vigor. His triumphant comeback was marked by a series of notable victories, including the coveted title of World Team Champion with Germany in 2018 and subsequent wins in prestigious tournaments such as the Bahamas Invitational, 2019 Porta Nigra Invitational in Trier, and the 2020 UBC Contender tournament.

In 2021, Schiemann solidified his legacy with the groundbreaking publication of “The Theory of Backgammon,” a seminal work that revolutionized the understanding of the game. His unparalleled insights earned him the monikers of “The Professor” and the “Theory Guy,” further underscoring his influence and authority in the backgammon community.

Currently based in Dinslaken, Germany, Schiemann shares his wealth of knowledge and expertise through private backgammon lessons, both in-person and online. He continues to dominate the virtual arena, showcasing his skills on platforms like Backgammon Galaxy and Backgammon Studio Heroes, where he secured victory in the prestigious “Best of the Best” invitational tournament for three consecutive years from 2021 to 2023. In addition to his accolades, Schiemann was voted the number 6 Giant in 2023, reaffirming his enduring impact on the backgammon world.

Dirk Schiemann recently attained the prestigious title of Super Grandmaster S3, a remarkable achievement attained by maintaining a performance rating of below 2.5 over 300 games. This feat underscores not only his extraordinary talent but also his relentless dedication to the game. Achieving such a milestone demands an unparalleled commitment to backgammon, requiring countless hours of study, practice, and refinement. It stands as a testament to Schiemann’s unwavering pursuit of excellence and solidifies his position as one of the most exceptional players in the history of Backgammon. As a luminary in the world of backgammon, Dirk Schiemann’s legacy transcends mere victories, embodying the spirit of perseverance, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the game, inspiring generations of players to strive for greatness.