From 1978 to 1998 he played in every FIDE World Championship match .
He is the most successful tournament player of all time , and as of July 2005 he has 161 first - place finishes to his credit .
From 1978 to 1998 tournament player played in every FIDE World Championship match .
He is the most successful tournament player of all time , and as of July 2005 he has 161 first - place finishes to his credit .