The Cold War fueled a strong rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, extending to the realm of chess. Soviet players consistently dominated international tournaments, which Fischer perceived as unfair due to alleged collusion.

Fischer's accusations of prearranged draws among Soviet players at the 1962 Curacao Candidates Tournament further intensified the Cold War chess rivalry. His claims were controversial but resonated with many who believed the Soviets had an unfair advantage.

The 1972 World Championship match between Fischer and Spassky became a symbolic battle between the United States and the Soviet Union. The match was highly publicized and viewed as a triumph for American ingenuity and individualism over Soviet collective strength.

The US government, seeing Fischer as a pawn in the cold war battle, gradually reduced support when he did not play. This ultimately led to his violation of sanctions and self-imposed exile.

Even after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Fischer's anti-American sentiment persisted, suggesting that his views were based on more than just Cold War rivalries. However, the Cold War context undoubtedly shaped his early experiences and perceptions.