Chess has officially entered the esports realm as top grandmaster Magnus Carlsen triumphed in the inaugural online chess tournament at the Esports World Cup (EWC) staged in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The 34-year-old Norwegian chess prodigy celebrated his victory with a substantial cash prize of $250,000 (approximately £188,000) while making headlines by bringing chess into the competitive gaming spotlight.
This year's EWC has gained attention not just for its scale, boasting a prize pool of about $70 million (£50 million), but also for its controversial inclusion of chess among other popular games like Call of Duty, Street Fighter, and League of Legends. The organizers defended this decision by highlighting chess's wide appeal, stating it is enjoyed by millions across different demographics.
During the tournament's seven-week duration, various teams from around the world competed in 25 games. Competitors engaged in the chess tournament from a stage adorned with screens and under the gaze of a live audience, wearing heart-rate monitors. In a riveting group stage followed by playoffs, it was none other than Carlsen, the world’s foremost traditional chess player, who secured the championship by defeating the eighth-ranked player, Alireza Firouzja.
Carlsen is known for his willingness to adapt to modernization within chess. He previously announced his return to the major chess competitions after the governing body's decision to adjust its dress code, a move that had recently prompted him to withdraw from the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships.
"This event has been an incredible experience, unlike anything I have ever witnessed before," Carlsen remarked as he lifted the EWC trophy, which resembled a gold plate in design. Emphasizing his support for the event's future, he added, "I truly hope this marks a significant chapter for chess. Perhaps, we can aim for an even larger platform next time." The excitement surrounding Carlsen's win has undoubtedly set the stage for chess's growth in esports.
