Friendships among competitors in sports are not unusual
Chess by Shelby Lyman
on May 3, 2014 – 12:01 AM
A major factor in their friendship was Spassky’s respect and affection for his American rival whose directness and honesty he admired as much as his chess.
After the Russian’s defeat in 1972, Bobby and Boris retained intermittent contact despite the barrier of the Cold War. Their continued relationship laid the foundation for a second but unofficial match in Sveti Stepan, Yugoslavia, in 1992 although both were well past their prime.
Often referred to as the “revenge match,” their second meeting – also won by Fischer – was more exhibition than serious chess.
Curiously, Spassky seemed most concerned about the negative effects of a loss on his vulnerable friend than winning the encounter for his own sake.
After Fischer’s premature death 16 years later in Iceland, Spassky stood, eyes filled with tears, at his gravesite. “Do you think,” he said, “the spot next to him is available?”
This writer’s favorite recollection of Boris and Bobby is the moment after Boris had conceded defeat in the sixth game in Reykjavik.
Despite the painful loss, Spassky rose to his feet on stage to join the audience in thunderous applause for his rival.
Source: http://www.buffalonews.com
Priceless.