Mikayel Vardanyan

Pursuit of Excellence

Mikayel Vardanyan stands as a luminary in the world of backgammon, known for his unparalleled expertise and unwavering dedication to the game. Born in 1979 in Yerevan, Armenia, Mikayel’s journey into the realm of backgammon began over two decades ago, shaping him into the formidable Grandmaster 2 (G2) in Russia.

With an illustrious academic background, Mikayel graduated with honors from college in 1995, followed by a Bachelor’s degree in Russian Philology from Yerevan State University in 1999. His thirst for knowledge led him to attain a Master’s degree in Psychology and Social Science from the same institution in 2001, followed by a Ph.D. in Psychology from Moscow State Pedagogical University in 2004.

Mikayel’s passion for backgammon ignited in 2002 when he delved into GNU software, honing his skills through countless matches against the computer. However, it wasn’t until 2013 that he transitioned to active offline play, both in Russia and on the international stage. His dedication and strategic prowess swiftly earned him recognition, showcasing a remarkable performance with a stable Player Rating (PR), averaging around 3.1 to 3.5 in live tournaments.

In 2017, Mikayel’s embarked on a quest to cement his legacy, meticulously recording his matches and relentlessly analyzing his gameplay. His commitment paid off as he earned the prestigious titles of Master and eventually Grandmaster 3 (G3) from the Backgammon Masters Awarding Body (BMAB). Undeterred by challenges, Mikayel continued his pursuit of excellence, culminating in the coveted Grandmaster 2 (G2) title in 2023, solidifying his status as one of the finest backgammon players of his generation.

Beyond his individual accolades, Mikayel is revered for his role as a mentor and educator in the backgammon community. With over two decades of experience, he conducts comprehensive courses tailored for players of all levels, imparting invaluable knowledge and strategies to enhance their gameplay. His courses are renowned for their accessibility, quick progression, and transformative impact on students, instilling self-confidence and honing skills essential for success at the highest level of backgammon.

Mikayel’s dominance in backgammon transcends boundaries, evident not only in his academic pursuits but also in his remarkable achievements in live events and online tournaments. His recent triumph at the 2nd Arkin Open VIP in February 2024 underscores his exceptional skill and determination.

In addition to this notable victory, Mikayel has left an impressive trail of success, including his semifinalist placement in the Nordic 2019 tournament and his victory in the Super Jackpot in Trier in 2019. He also secured second place in the 20th Cyprus Open Backgammon and clinched another Super Jackpot win at the 6th Montenegro Open.

Mikayel’s consistent performances have earned him numerous prizes in prestigious events, including several appearances on the podium in Merit tournaments and a plethora of wins in Russian competitions. His insatiable thirst for improvement and unwavering dedication to his craft serve as a beacon of inspiration for backgammon players worldwide, motivating them to reach for greatness and leave their indelible mark on the game.