Magnus Carlsen, born in Norway, is widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players in history.
A child prodigy, Carlsen became a grandmaster in 2004 at the age of 13 – one of the youngest ever to earn the title. His rapid rise through the chess world culminated in his first World Championship victory in 2013, when he defeated Viswanathan Anand.
Since then, Carlsen has built a legacy few can match. He has amassed 16 world titles, which include five Classical World Chess Championships, five World Rapid titles, and six Blitz World Championships.
His deep strategic understanding, precise calculations, and adaptable playing style have made him a dominant force in both classical and faster formats.
Beyond the chessboard, Carlsen has taken on a key role in promoting the game globally.
The Norwegian has partnered with brands, engaged in digital platforms, and now, embraced the rise of chess in the esports scene.
In 2025, chess.com and Carlsen announced a major partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF), marking a historic step for chess as it debuts at the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 29 to August 1.
The event features a record-breaking $1.5 million prize pool, introducing the game to a new generation of esports fans.
Speaking about chess’s potential in larger arenas, Carlsen remarked: “I think chess has always been a place played in smaller arenas and venues. We need concentration as players, obviously.
“There is definitely an opportunity for chess to be different. I would like that to happen – play in bigger arenas, with more fans, with more excitement, faster games – and I think this World Cup in esports is helpful. But we would need more of that, and not just one event per year, to keep the hype train going.”
Carlsen’s efforts to popularize chess were also evident at the NEXT Summit in Malta, where he was a special guest and keynote speaker, representing BETBY. He stunned the audience by defeating Malta’s national champion Colin Pace in a blindfolded exhibition match held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre.
With ten minutes each on the clock, Carlsen announced every move without seeing the board – a feat that drew awe from the crowd present. Pace had earned his place in the match by winning the iGaming World Chess Championship earlier that week.
Reflecting on the growing appeal of chess, Carlsen noted: “I would say in general, holding events like the chess game at the NEXT Summit is good for the game of chess. Everyone can be inspired. There were a lot of kids as well – hopefully they can take over chess and get more into it.”
Carlsen also emphasized the educational and cultural value of chess.
“Generally, I recommend chess to kids as part of their earlier mental development. You can help improve analytical ability and decision-making from a young age. It can help you in general in life,” he said.
When asked about his preparation habits, Carlsen offered a surprising insight.
“My preparation… there is nothing special to it,” he said.
“I mainly try to keep a clear mind. I don’t want to think too much about the game – it takes away a lot of mental and physical energy that I need for the game. That is sort of my main takeaway.
“I think a lot of people spend too much time worrying about it. If you are a professional in it, you know what to do, so just do the necessary preparation and occupy yourself with other things.”
To Carlsen, the timeless nature of the game is part of its universal appeal.
“I think chess strikes a balance between an easy game but also a complex game that has been popular for thousands of years,” he said.
With his continued presence on and off the board, Magnus Carlsen is not just a grandmaster – he is a global ambassador, shaping the future of chess and helping it thrive in new and exciting arenas.
