Who Is Wesley So? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on October 9, 1993, Wesley So is 31 years old as of 2025. He grew up in Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines, and displayed a remarkable aptitude for chess from an early age. He achieved the title of Grandmaster in 2014 at the age of 14, making him one of the youngest players to earn this title. His journey has taken him from national competitions to global championships, where he has made significant strides, including victories in prestigious tournaments.
For more detailed information, you can visit his Wikipedia page.
| Occupation | Chess Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 9, 1993 |
| Age | 32 Years |
| Birth Place | Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | Philippines |
Popularity
Wesley So's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Wesley So stands approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall and weighs around 150 lbs (68 kg). Although specific body measurements are less relevant in the world of chess, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and physique can be crucial for mental acuity and endurance during long matches.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Wesley So is considered to be private about his personal life. However, reports suggest that he is currently dating a notable chess enthusiast, though further details remain undisclosed. His supportive family, including his parents, are integral to his success, providing encouragement throughout his chess career.
So's transfer to the United States Chess Federation was confirmed in the November 2014 rating list. Soon after, he moved to Minnetonka, Minnesota to live with his adoptive parents, Lotis Key and her husband, Renato Kabigting.
Net Worth and Salary
Wesley So's net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $4 million. This wealth is derived from various sources, including tournament winnings, sponsorship deals, and chess-related ventures. His impressive ability on the board has garnered him significant financial rewards, particularly through high-stakes tournaments and endorsements.
Career, Business and Investments
So's career highlights encompass numerous tournament victories, including the prestigious 2016 and 2020 Grand Slam events. In addition to his tournament play, he has also been involved in chess coaching and online streaming, which have enhanced his visibility and marketability in the chess community. So has made shrewd investments in chess-related businesses, contributing to both his financial and professional growth.
So expressed intent to represent the United States, filing the documents required for him to be able to change his FIDE nationality in 2013. He justified the move due to his family permanently settling in Canada, himself planning to study and permanently reside in the United States, and as part of a bid to boost his own career.
He also said that National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) disapproved of his participation in the 2013 Summer Universiade in Kazan, Russia over the 2013 Asian Indoor Games and he felt obliged to participate in tournaments deemed important by the NCFP such as the Southeast Asian Games over concern that he might lose financial support eve
n if it conflicted with his studies in the United States.
Retrospectively in 2019 and in 2021, he said that he lacked the necessary "connections" for him to be able to thrive in the Philippines.
Social Network
Wesley So is active on various social media platforms, where he engages with fans and fellow chess enthusiasts. You can find him on:
- Twitter: @wesley_so
- Instagram: @wesley_so
As So's playing strength and rating increased, so did the number of invites to high-level events. So initially led the strong Biel tournament before drifting back to share fifth place with 4½/9.
Three weeks later, So held his own in the last NH "Experience vs Rising Stars" Match (played under Scheveningen match rules) scoring 4½/10 for the "Rising Stars" team. So took part in the 39th Chess Olympiad and placed fourth, scoring 5½/10 at the 2010 SPICE Cup, before the Asian Games.
So tied for fourth place at Tata Steel (formerly Corus) Group B but withdrew from the Aeroflot Open, held soon after, citing exhaustion from the previous event. In July 2011 he won the Philippine Chess Championship for a third time.
So's rating hovered over the coming year with a solid performance at the strong AAI International Tournament in New Delhi among performances typical for his rating.
Education
Wesley So completed his early education in the Philippines before moving to the United States for further studies. He attended Webster University in St. Louis, where he not only continued his college education but also honed his chess skills as part of the university's chess team. Balancing academics with a professional chess career, he successfully earned a diploma while establishing himself as a formidable chess competitor.
He has one older sister, Wendelle Barbossa So, and one younger sister, Wilma Barbossa So. So attended the Jesus Good Shepherd School and Saint Francis of Assisi College in Bacoor.
Conclusion
Wesley So continues to be an influential figure in the chess world as of 2025. His achievements on and off the board reflect his dedication to the game, as well as his ability to navigate both personal and professional challenges. With a promising future ahead, fans and followers eagerly anticipate his next moves both on the chessboard and in life.
