Luchenko Character Analysis in The Queen’s Gambit

Luchenko is a Russian player whom Beth plays in Moscow. He is 57, has long, white hair like an orchestra conductor’s, and dresses immaculately. He was the previous World Champion before Borgov. In contrast to Borgov, he is very warm towards Beth, who pulls off a stunning recovery in her game against Luchenko. When she wins, he tells her that she may be the best chess player he will ever play.

Luchenko Character Timeline in The Queen’s Gambit

The timeline below shows where the character Luchenko appears in The Queen’s Gambit. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

...begins the next morning. A director welcomes them all, and Beth notices three Russian players: Luchenko, Laev, and Shapkin, all of whom are formidable next to American players. She doesn’t want... (full context)

...finishes his speech, the players all migrate to the vast auditorium. As Beth files out, Luchenko greets her, saying he’s delighted she’s here and that he looks forward to playing her.... (full context)

Talent, Ambition, Dedication, and Success Theme Icon

...rigorous and exhausting, but she is never in any real danger. Now, she is playing Luchenko. He is the oldest player there; he had been World Champion before Beth was born.... (full context)

...She allows it to happen, and she tenses, now behind in the game. She and Luchenko make a few trades, but if they continue to trade, she will be ground down... (full context)

That night, Beth studies the position with Luchenko until she becomes dizzy with too much chess and too little food. She decides to... (full context)

...at her. She will play Flento in the morning and then finish her game with Luchenko in the afternoon. Flento is the weakest player in the tournament, and she beats him,... (full context)

As the match starts back up, Luchenko moves the pawn that Beth expected. She is relieved; now she can focus on the... (full context)

...hoping that she looks like she is attacking his pawn formation, and to her excitement, Luchenko moves his pawn rather than considering other possibilities. She moves her knight; if he takes... (full context)

From that point on, Beth whittles away at Luchenko’s pawns while attacking his remaining bishop. She gives 20 of her remaining 25 minutes to... (full context)

Beth is surprised at Luchenko’s lack of rancor, and she tells him how much she admires him. He is astounded... (full context)

...She thanks the woman hosting the event, and before she leaves, she says goodbye to Luchenko. He bows and says that all this—the party—is not like chess at all. (full context)