The Chinese sports world is united in grief following the passing of Nie Weiping, the revered Go master who died in Beijing on Wednesday at age 73. Known affectionately as the “Weiqi Sage” by admirers worldwide, Nie’s family confirmed his passing with profound sorrow, acknowledging his immeasurable impact on the ancient board game.
Born August 17, 1952, in Shenzhou, Hebei province, Nie demonstrated exceptional talent from his early years, rising to become China’s foremost Go ambassador during the late 20th century. His competitive zenith arrived during the 1980s China-Japan super challenge series, where his strategic brilliance secured three consecutive victories for China, capturing national imagination during a period of significant cultural development.
Nie’s legacy extends beyond his competitive achievements. Granted the ninth-dan rank—the highest honor in Go—in 1982, he later assumed leadership as head coach of China’s national team in 1986. His mentorship cultivated multiple world champions while his decades-long dedication to popularizing the game introduced countless enthusiasts to Go’s intricate beauty.
In 1988, China’s national sports administration formally recognized his contributions by bestowing the title “Weiqi Sage,” cementing his status as a cultural icon. Contemporary Go prodigy Ke Jie, among Nie’s most accomplished students, expressed his grief on social media, echoing sentiments across the sports community. Former Chinese Weiqi Association president Hua Xueming remembered Nie as “an icon representing an entire generation of glorious achievements,” while Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun joined numerous public figures in paying tribute to the legendary master.
Nie’s thoughtful approach to strategy and commitment to demystifying Go’s complexities earned him universal respect from peers, protégés, and casual players alike. His passing marks the conclusion of an era, but his contributions to competitive Go and cultural diplomacy ensure his influence will endure for generations.