Chess legend Magnus Carlsen has made it clear that he is not in the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championship just to participate — he is here to win. The Norwegian superstar said that neither fatherhood nor the rise of young talents like India’s D. Gukesh has weakened his competitive fire or hunger for success.
Carlsen, who continues to rule the global chess arena, enters the season-ending championship as the overwhelming favourite. He has already won five Rapid and eight Blitz titles, the latest coming in New York in 2024. However, his campaign last year came with controversy after he appeared in jeans, violating FIDE’s dress code, leading to a ban from the Rapid competition — a ban many feel robbed him of yet another possible title.
Sharing the stage with reigning Classical World Champion D. Gukesh, Carlsen opened up about how life changes haven’t altered his goals.
“I love being a husband and a father. It’s been a fantastic experience, but it hasn’t changed my approach. I’m here to win as always,” he said.
Carlsen, who has faced Gukesh this year — including a stunning loss to the Indian prodigy at Norway Chess — still considers him part of the “younger generation,” joking that he was already a top-50 player when Gukesh was born.
Speaking about facing youngsters, Carlsen said the unpredictability excites him.
“Playing established top players is always interesting, but youngsters develop so fast that you never know how strong they will be. Every World Rapid & Blitz sees someone unexpected emerging.”
Carlsen Calls AI a Double-Edged Sword
Carlsen expressed concern that Artificial Intelligence has made chess preparation “too easy,” thereby reducing creativity.
“AI tools are incredible for learning, but they’ve made chess more equal and honestly a bit boring at times. It’s become too easy to prepare,” he admitted.
Gukesh Sees AI as a Positive Advantage
Gukesh, however, disagreed and said AI has helped him grow as a player.
“AI helps me learn faster. Yes, it makes opponents stronger and games harder, but it has made chess more athletic and mentally demanding,” he said, adding that fitness and mentality play a bigger role now.
As chess evolves with technology and a new generation challenges established greats, Carlsen remains confident, focused, and determined to defend his dominance on the board.