The Esports World Cup, held in Riyadh, saw Magnus Carlsen triumph in the first online chess competition, taking home a generous prize of $250,000. The inclusion of chess at this prestigious event, amidst some initial skepticism, served to underscore its growing global popularity. Spanning seven weeks with a total prize pool of approximately $70 million, competitors varied from seasoned veterans to grassroots players across a broad spectrum of 25 games. Carlsen's final showdown was against eighth-ranked player Alireza Firouzja, where he once again demonstrated his unmatched skill.
“I really hope that this is a big part of the future for chess,” Carlsen stated after lifting the trophy, expressing optimism about the game’s role in esports. The combination of a live audience, large screens displaying moves, and players wearing heart-rate monitors bore striking similarities to traditional sports. The event showcased not only chess's popularity but its alignment with modern esports trends, setting the stage for future tournaments on an even bigger scale.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Carlsen's victory at the Esports World Cup marks a significant moment, potentially paving the way for chess's further integration into the realm of competitive gaming.
