I believe that judged by his style of play, Spassky is much closer to Alekhine and Tal than to Smyslov, Botvinnik, or Petrosian. This is probably why, when Spassky was in his best form, neither Tal nor Korchnoi could really put up much resistance against him. Spassky could read their play (especially that of Tal) like an open book.
Boris Spassky
» Boris Spassky - all quotes »
The universal chess style, characterized by the ability to play quite different types of chess positions, is considered by many to derive from that of Boris Spassky. But I think that the general idea that Spassky has a universal style overlooks the fact that from an early age, Spassky had a bent for sharp, attacking play and a good eye for the initiative.
Boris Spassky
I'm not afraid of Spassky. The world knows I'm the best. You don't need a match to prove it.
Bobby Fischer
Spassky was the first great chess player to use both 1.e4 and 1.d4 with equal success. He managed to employ these moves more harmoniously than any other world champion.
Boris Spassky
One of the soundest attacking players ever, Spassky nonetheless took very few chances. Totally dominant until he lost to the irresistible juggernaut known as Bobby Fischer. After that loss, he was never the same.
Boris Spassky
At a strictly personal level, if not to the manor born, Spassky was certainly to the gracious manner born.
Boris Spassky
Spassky, Boris
Spears, Britney
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