Judah Levitan Becomes South Africa’s Newest FIDE Master at 15

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Judah’s journey from primary school tournaments to top-five national rankings is proof that young South Africans are making global moves.

South Africa (04 August 2025) – There’s a new name making waves in South African chess and that is 15-year-old Judah Levitan. The bright young talent has just earned the title of FIDE Master, which officially means he is recognised as one of the top chess players in the world. What’s even more impressive is that he is now ranked among the top five players in the entire country.

Judah’s love for chess started early. By the age of eight, he was already making his mark. That year, he tied for first place at the African Youth Chess Championship in Kenya. An incredible achievement for someone still in primary school. It was clear even then that he had something special.

Since then, Judah’s journey has taken him all over the globe. At just 12 years old, he was wearing the South African colours at the World Schools Chess Championship in Panama, and he also competed at the World Youth Olympiad in Azerbaijan. Along the way, he won the national Under-12 Championship and even picked up a medal at the African Youth Championships.

This year has been a big one for the young star. Earlier in 2025, Judah became South Africa’s Junior Blitz Champion, a faster version of chess where players race against the clock. And now, reaching the level of FIDE Master is the latest step in a journey that shows no signs of slowing down.

Making his story even more inspiring is his twin brother, Caleb, who is also a top level chess player. The two often compete side by side, pushing each other to become better. It is not every day that you find two chess masters in the same family!

“Watching Judah grow as a player over the years has been deeply rewarding. His passion for the game, humility in victory, and courage under pressure mark him not only as a champion, but as a true ambassador for South African chess,” said Mr Andre Lewaks, President of Chess South Africa. “He’s not just a remarkable young man, he’s part of a remarkable family. Having two Chess Masters in the same household is extraordinary, and Judah’s journey will motivate aspiring players for years to come.”

At only 15, Judah Levitan taking on the world. One chess move at a time.