From Lost Momentum to National Champion: Zoubaier’s Comeback Story

“I was playing very well. I had beaten many Grandmasters, played beautiful games, and believed I could reach the next level,” Zoubaier Amdouni recalls of his peak years in 2013-14.

At that time, Zoubaier's chess career was blossoming with promising wins and performances that caught the attention of many.

But beneath the surface, frustration and struggles were silently building.

“In Tunisia, we didn't have much support from the federation. We had no national coach, structured training or resources. The lack of opportunities made it challenging to progress, despite my efforts and achievements.”

Over time, his momentum faded. His confidence eroded.

What followed was a long period of stagnation, years of doubt that slowly clouded the dream of taking his chess to the next level.

Then, in 2022, a significant turning point emerged.

Our first investor, Badreddine Ouali, bought ChessMood memberships for Tunisian players and coaches, including Zoubaier.
This opportunity provided him with something he had always lacked.

“I felt I had a qualified trainer who could help me play better openings, understand positions deeply, and analyze effectively.
I got a good reason to start playing again.”

But returning to competition after a significant break comes with unique challenges.

Chess theory evolves rapidly. So Zoubaier approached his comeback methodically, using the new resources to rebuild his game.

“The main reason I like ChessMood was the repertoire. It was easy, really interesting and perfect. It gave me structured knowledge to play confidently. I started to use my new opening weapon in tournaments and had good results.”

An important moment came when Badreddine Ouali invited GM Avetik to Tunisia for a week-long training camp with the national coaches.

Zoubaier (3rd from left), GM Avetik (4th from right), Badreddine Ouali (2nd from right), alongside other attendees of the camp

“I was lucky to be a part of this program and work with GM Avetik in person. When we had free time, I used to ask him about practical play, theory and improvement in general.

Beyond chess, the personal interactions we had, like running on the beach after a training session, profoundly impacted me. He truly helped me as a coach and a player too.”

You show the solution, but Coach says you missed a defense

The positive momentum continued, and Zoubaier was selected for the Olympiad team.

With his national team (Zoubaier standing, second from left)

Zoubaier scored crucial wins against higher-rated opponents. On some occasions, his victories even helped his country pull off upsets against stronger teams.

“At the Olympiad, I also met GM Avetik at the famous Bermuda party. We danced the whole night. It was an unforgettable experience.”

But Zoubaier’s ultimate challenge awaited him back home.

The stakes were high: Winning meant representing his country at prestigious tournaments, like the Olympiad, African Championship, and the World Cup.

He had a rocky start—two draws followed by a loss.

But Zoubaier showed remarkable resilience, bouncing back with four consecutive wins. Here’s one of his beautiful victories.

Facing intense pressure in the final round, he delivered when it mattered the most, clinching the championship title with a crucial victory!

Zoubaier became the Tunisian Champion in 2025

“I was really happy with the title!

I'm thankful to ChessMood for giving the chance for players who don't have actual coaches, who don't have actual chess material to learn and improve.”

Zoubaier’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that with resilience, dedication, and the right support, extraordinary comebacks are possible.

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You can send your well wishes and messages to Zoubaier under this forum thread.