Watu Kobese vs Jan Karsten
Watu Kobese (53, IM, RSA) and Jan Karsten (18, IM, RSA) have met 6 times in classical OTB plus 2 rapid/blitz games. Karsten leads the classical series 3–0 (3 draws). With current classical ratings of 2258 and 2382, the Elo model gives Karsten a 51% chance of winning a classical game with white.
Head-to-Head Score
If they played today · Classical
Based on current Elo: 2258 vs 2382 (Δ -124)
With Watu Kobese as white
26% Watu22% draw51% Jan
With Jan Karsten as white
19% Watu19% draw62% Jan
Estimate from Elo only · doesn't account for recent form, opening prep, or context.
Career Compare
| Watu Kobese | Jan Karsten | |
|---|---|---|
| Current rating (STD) | 2258 | 2382 |
| Peak rating | 2419 · Jan 2005 | 2385 · Jun 2025 |
| Peak age | 32 | 17 |
| World rank now | #5,516 | #1,994 |
| World rank peak | #1,674 | #1,945 |
| Federation rank now | #8 | #2 |
| Games (career, STD) | 528 | 304 |
| Months active | 217 | 56 |
| % white wins | 55% | 57% |
| % black wins | 47% | 52% |
| TPR last 12m (STD) | 2082 | 2377 |
| Activity 12m (games) | 9 | 29 |
Best Win
Watu Kobese
Jan Karsten
Highest-rated opponent ever beaten · STD primary, rapid/blitz for context
All Meetings (8)
Common Opponents
Tournaments Both Played
Cohort Position
Each player compared to active peers (same federation, ±75 Elo, played in last 12 months).
Watu Kobese
Jan Karsten