Ray Robson

Ray Robson has been a mainstay of American chess for half his life. He made his debut on the national squad at the 2009 World Team Championship at just 15 years old. As a result, Robson set a record as the youngest male player to represent the U.S. in such a competition. Notably, this record still stands today. Over the years, Ray Robson has built an impressive resume across team events, individual championships, and puzzle competitions alike.

Robson’s International Team Achievements

Ray was a member of the American Olympiad teams that won gold in 2016. He also earned silver medals in 2018, 2021, and 2024, along with bronze in 2020. In addition, Ray was a member of the U.S. silver medal-winning team at the 2009 World Team Championship. He was also part of the gold medal-winning squad at the 2013 Pan American Team Championship. Consequently, Robson’s international medal collection spans more than a decade of elite competition.

Ray Robson’s U.S. Championship Record

Robson has played in 19 consecutive U.S. Championships, dating back to his debut in 2007. This remarkable streak is only exceeded by Joel Benjamin, who played in 23 consecutive events between 1981 and 2006. Furthermore, Ray has been a consistent performer throughout, only finishing with a minus score four times. He placed second on three separate occasions in 2015, 2022, and 2024. He also finished third in 2020. As a result, Robson has established himself as one of the most dependable competitors in the championship’s modern era.

Five-Time Puzzle Battle World Champion

Ray is also a five-time Chess.com Puzzle Battle World Champion. He held the title from 2020 to 2024, demonstrating remarkable consistency in this fast-paced format. Moreover, this impressive streak further highlights Robson’s versatility and competitive drive across multiple disciplines of chess. From team events to individual championships and puzzle battles, Ray Robson continues to be a formidable force in American chess.