Who Is David Howell (chess player)? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on November 14, 1990, David Howell is a renowned English chess grandmaster with an impressive career that has seen him rise to prominence in the international chess community. As of 2025, David is 34 years old and continues to be an influential figure in the world of chess, known for his strategic finesse and dedication to the game. His chess journey began at a young age, displaying exceptional talent that quickly garnered attention. He achieved the esteemed title of Grandmaster in 2009, making him one of the prominent names in British chess.
| Occupation | Chess Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 14, 1990 |
| Age | 34 Years |
| Birth Place | Eastbourne, England |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | England |
Popularity
David Howell (chess player)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
David Howell stands tall at approximately 6 feet (183 cm) and has a weight of around 160 lbs (72 kg). His keen intellect and focus are matched by a well-maintained physique, reflecting a balanced lifestyle that supports both his mental and physical well-being. Howell’s height and build are typical among elite chess players who, while primarily engaging in mental contests, also prioritize health and fitness.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
While David Howell often keeps his personal life private, rumors have circulated regarding his dating status. As of 2025, he is reportedly in a relationship, although specific details about his current girlfriend remain undisclosed. Howell's commitment to chess has often taken precedence over his personal relationships, but his fans remain curious about his romantic life. Family plays an important role in David’s life, as he frequently expresses gratitude towards his parents who supported his chess ambitions from an early age.
Howell has been playing chess since the age of five years and eight months, following his father's purchase of a second-hand chess set at a jumble sale. He quickly learned to defeat his father and soon came to the attention of the Sussex Junior Chess Association, where he received tuition from a number of established county players.
He progressed rapidly and became the British champion in the age categories Under 8, Under 9 and Under 10.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, David Howell's estimated net worth is around $2 million. His earnings come from various sources, including tournament winnings, sponsorship deals, and his engagements as a commentator and chess coach. Howell has been successful in leveraging his chess expertise through online platforms and educational content as well. His participation in high-profile tournaments each year contributes significantly to his overall earnings.
Career, Business, and Investments
David Howell's career has been marked by numerous achievements, including participation in prestigious tournaments like the Grand Slam Chess and the British Chess Championships. Besides his competition success, Howell has ventured into business, co-founding a chess-related platform that aims to educate and inspire new generations of chess players. He has also made investments in tech startups focusing on online education, showcasing his savvy in diversifying his portfolio beyond chess.
Social Network
David Howell actively engages with his fan base through various social media platforms. He has a substantial following on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, where he shares insights into his life as a chess player, including tournament updates, game analyses, and personal reflections. His social media presence helps promote chess to a broader audience and provides fans with a glimpse into the mind of a grandmaster.
Since becoming a grandmaster in 2007, Howell has participated in a variety of competitions; he took a share of fourth place in the British championship that year and went on to scoop the English Chess Federation's Player of the Year Award.
Education
David attended the University of Leeds, where he pursued a degree in Politics and International Relations while simultaneously honing his chess skills. His academic background has equipped him with critical thinking skills essential for strategic decision-making in chess. Despite his demanding schedule, Howell emphasizes the importance of education and encourages young chess players to balance intellectual growth with their passion for the game.
Progress was perhaps more measured during his early to mid-teens, but Howell continued to meet all the milestone challenges, first gaining the International Master title, and culminating in becoming a grandmaster at the age of sixteen, the youngest ever in the UK.
Along the way, he performed well at the Hastings knockout-style tournament (2004–5 edition), where he was eliminated at the quarter-final (round 5) stage by the strong Polish GM Bartosz Soćko.
