Strategy requires thought, tactics require observation.

Paradoxically his two title matches with Alexander Alekhine were displays of tactical ferocity from both sides. Some commentators have also questioned whether Euwe did as much as he could have to prevent Fischer from forfeiting his world title in 1975. Alekhine quickly went two games ahead but from game 13 onwards Euwe won twice as many games as Alekhine.

He was the fifth player to become World Chess Champion (1935–37). Euwe also served as President of FIDE the World Chess Federation from 1970 to 1978.