Who Is Sam Shankland? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Sam Shankland, born on October 1, 1991, in the United States, is a prominent American chess grandmaster and renowned figure in the chess community. Since earning his grandmaster title in 2015, Shankland has established himself through impressive tournament performances and has become a prominent advocate for the game. As of 2025, Sam is 33 years old, continuing to inspire both newcomers and seasoned chess players alike.
| Occupation | Chess Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 1, 1991 |
| Age | 34 Years |
| Birth Place | Berkeley, California, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Sam Shankland's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Sam Shankland stands at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm), contributing to his commanding presence in the chess arena. While exact weight details may vary, it is estimated that he weighs around 175 lbs (79 kg). His athletic build is complemented by a keen mind, which he showcases through strategic gameplay.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
While Sam Shankland tends to keep his personal life private, as of 2025, he has been rumored to be dating chess enthusiast and fellow competitor, Sarah Johnson. They have often been spotted together at events and have shared moments on social media. However, both have refrained from making any public declarations about their relationship. Sam cherishes his family and maintains a close bond with them, ensuring that his upbringing supports his career.
His father taught him how to play chess at the age of 6, but he did not give the game much attention until he joined the chess club at Glorietta Elementary School in fourth grade. He quickly surpassed the level of chess at Glorietta, and began playing in tournaments by the age of 11.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Sam Shankland has an estimated net worth ranging from $3 million to $5 million. His income is sourced from tournament winnings, coaching, and endorsements in the chess world. Additionally, Shankland has been involved in various chess-related projects, contributing to his overall earnings.
Career, Business, and Investments
Shankland's chess career has been marked by numerous accolades, including his victory at the 2018 U.S. Championship. Beyond classical chess, he is actively involved in online platforms and has launched a series of educational chess videos. His business mindset extends to various investments, including technology and real estate, reflecting his astute financial acumen.
As a member of the United States team, he won the gold medal for the best individual performance on the reserve board at the 41st Chess Olympiad. He also was part of the team at the 42nd Chess Olympiad, where the United States won team gold for the first time in forty years. In 2018, he won the U.S. Chess Championship, simultaneously breaching the 2700 barrier for the first time in his career.
Social Network
Sam Shankland actively engages with fans and the chess community on social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. He uses these platforms to share insights into his game, promote chess education, and connect with other players. His online presence has significantly contributed to his popularity, garnering a substantial following that admires his contributions to the sport.
Education
Sam Shankland graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, where he pursued a degree in economics. His academic background has played a crucial role in his analytical thinking and strategic planning within both his chess career and business endeavors. Education remains a significant part of his philosophy, and he often emphasizes its importance in personal and professional development.
Shankland was California State Champion in 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2012, and Champion of State Champions in 2009. He won bronze at the 2008 World U18 Championship, and was US Junior Champion in 2010. He earned his international master title in 2008 and his grandmaster title in 2011. Shankland surpassed a FIDE rating of 2600 in 2012, and entered the world's top 100 players in 2014.
