With the upcoming World Championship duel between Fabiano Caruana and Magnus Carlsen only a little over a week away, we continue previewing the event with a closer look at each of the players. Last week, we explored Caruana’s endeavors outside of chess. Now, let’s take a look at the World Champion himself.
We all know of Magnus Carlsen the hyper-confident chess player, World Champion, and highest ranked player in history, but who is he beyond competitive chess?
In 2015, the Norwegian brand, Altibox, featured Magnus Carlsen in a battle against a sorcerer in one of their commercials.
In 2017, Magnus Carlsen was featured on a chess-focused episode of the Simpsons, “The Cad and the Hat.” Carlsen gives sage advice as he trains Homer Simpson for an epic chess match against his father.
In 2016, Magnus Carlsen was featured in a commercial for the Porsche 911 where he plays a chess game against a worthy opponent, himself.
“In the chess world, Magnus Carlsen, a 19-year-old Norwegian, is a phenomenon. A grandmaster by the time he was 13, he is ranked No. 1 in the world — the youngest ever.
Taking a break at the office on the media day. Apple Alley-oop.
Who says you can't celebrate second place?
What are your thoughts on Magnus Carlsen outside of chess?
Stay tuned for coverage on the upcoming World Championship, including Caruana and Carlsen’s past head-to-head games and an in-depth look at each player’s strengths and weaknesses.
Vanessa West is a regular writer for US Chess News. She won the 2017 Chess Journalist of the Year award.