“In a game of speed and nerves, Carlsen proved that timeless skill still rules the board.”
In a historic moment for both chess and esports, Norwegian Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen claimed victory in the inaugural chess tournament at the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Carlsen defeated rising star Alireza Firouzja in a thrilling grand final, showcasing the perfect blend of precision, speed, and strategy.
The match, played under rapid time controls, saw Carlsen outclass Firouzja 3.5–1.5 in a best-of-6 format. With this win, Carlsen not only took home the $250,000 top prize, but also made history as the first-ever chess champion at an EWC event.
“It’s exciting to see chess recognized on a global esports stage. The atmosphere was electric,” Carlsen said after the match.
This event marked a major milestone for chess as it continues to expand into digital and competitive platforms. The inclusion of chess in EWC reflects the game’s growing popularity among younger audiences and its recognition as a serious esport.
Carlsen’s dominant performance reaffirmed his legendary status while sparking global interest in future high-stakes chess competitions within the esports world.