Magnus Carlsen, 34, has cemented his place as one of the greatest chess players in history. He holds the No. 1 ranking and has claimed eight Blitz World Championship titles, along with five each in the World Chess and Rapid Championships.
Recently, during the Blitz final in New York, Carlsen made headlines by suggesting a shared victory with Ian Nepomniachtchi after their sudden-death tiebreak. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) approved this unexpected proposal, resulting in the £72,000 ($90,000) prize being split. With his immense skill and numerous titles, Carlsen has also built a fortune estimated at £20 million ($25 million).
Carlsen made headlines in December when he withdrew from the World Rapid Championship halfway through the tournament due to a dress code dispute with FIDE. He refused to change his jeans, which violated FIDE regulations and faced a £160 ($200) fine.
Carlsen saw the enforcement as excessive and opted to leave the event, stating, “It became a matter of principle for me.” While his actions divided opinions among fans and officials, Carlsen later returned to compete in the Blitz Championship after FIDE relaxed its stance, allowing “elegant minor deviations” from the dress code.
Magnus Carlsen (@magnus_carlsen/Instagram)Cheating Allegations Rock the Chess World
In 2022, Carlsen became embroiled in a scandal involving young grandmaster Hans Niemann. After losing to Niemann at the Sinquefield Cup, Carlsen accused him of cheating, withdrew from the tournament, and later resigned from an online game against Niemann after just one move.
Chess.com’s investigation found evidence of Niemann cheating in online games but none during in-person matches. Niemann denied the allegations and filed a £80 million ($100 million) lawsuit against Carlsen and others, which was dismissed in 2023. Despite the controversy, Carlsen expressed his willingness to compete against Niemann in future events.
Carlsen’s personal life has also drawn attention, particularly his relationship with Ella Victoria Malone. The couple, first seen publicly in February 2024, is reportedly set to marry soon in a private ceremony. Malone, who has an American father and Norwegian mother, often supports Carlsen during tournaments while avoiding the spotlight. She has described the emotional challenges of watching him compete, explaining that while she believes in his abilities, it can be tough to see him struggle during matches.
Magnus Carlsen (@magnus_carlsen/Instagram)A Career of Principles and Challenges
Carlsen’s career has been marked by a willingness to challenge established norms. Whether refusing to comply with a dress code or proposing a shared championship, his actions reflect a deep commitment to his principles. While these decisions have drawn criticism from some quarters, they also underline Carlsen’s individuality and determination to stand by what he believes is right, even at the expense of controversy.
Magnus Carlsen’s career stands as a blend of remarkable achievements and contentious moments. With a net worth of £20 million ($25 million) and an unparalleled record in chess, he is one of the sport’s greatest figures. Yet, his willingness to defy conventions has made him a polarizing figure. Carlsen’s legacy will not only be defined by his dominance on the chessboard but also by his readiness to question and reshape the rules of the game.
