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June 7, 2025 | Chess News | Norway
As speculation grows over the future of classical chess following Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura's potential exit from the format, five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand has offered a grounded perspective. Speaking during the ongoing Norway Chess tournament, Anand emphasized that while Carlsen and Nakamura are two of the sport’s biggest icons, the future of chess remains secure thanks to a steady stream of emerging talent.
Carlsen and Nakamura, both fan favorites and global chess influencers, have recently hinted at stepping away from classical tournaments. Carlsen, the current world number one, has already limited his appearances, opting instead for rapid and blitz events, including esports and freestyle formats. Nakamura, known for his online streaming success, has also spoken about cutting back on traditional chess commitments.
However, Anand, who now serves as the Deputy President of FIDE, was unperturbed by the potential vacuum their absence might create.
“The sport goes on. There are hundreds of new talents — 11-year-olds, 80-year-olds — coming in. It’s a normal part of life,” Anand said to Indian journalists.
“Magnus and Hikaru have been talking about dialing down classical chess for years now. It’s not unexpected.”
Carlsen recently made headlines after an emotional moment during his loss to Indian teenage sensation D. Gukesh, the current world champion. Following an error, Carlsen slammed his fist on the board and later remarked that playing classical chess was no longer “fun” for him. He told Norway’s TV2, “Maybe I should totally stop playing classical chess… I don’t feel it is fun anymore.”
Nakamura has also indicated that his recent game against Carlsen in Norway Chess might be the last time the two face off in a classical setting, estimating an “80% chance” of retiring from the format.
Anand on Gukesh’s Rise
Anand praised 19-year-old Gukesh for his resilience after a tough start in Norway Chess, where he lost his first two games against Carlsen and Arjun Erigaisi. However, the teen bounced back with wins over both, showcasing the grit and growth of a new generation.
Anand advised Gukesh to embrace the breaks between tournaments.
“It’s important not to get mentally fatigued by playing non-stop. You have to enjoy the breaks,” he said.
As two legends contemplate stepping back, Viswanathan Anand’s message is clear — chess will continue to thrive, with the torch being passed on to a promising new era led by talents like Gukesh and Erigaisi.