Magnus Carlsen made history by winning the first-ever chess event at the 2025 Esports World Cup in Riyadh. After his win, he spoke about his excitement to become a father soon with wife Ella Victoria Malone. Read more
Five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen just made history by winning the first-ever Chess event at the 2025 Esports World Cup. Team Liquid’s Carlsen won the grand final in style, defeating Team Falcons’ Alireza Firouzja by winning back-to-back sets 3-1, 3-1 in the best-of-three format. The event took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from July 29 to August 1.
“I was overall in better shape today so I felt that I was going to get chances and of course it all turned out perfectly," Carlsen said after his triumph in the final.
STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Carlsen on his future plans
After his win, Carlsen shared a heartfelt moment in the post-match interview. He revealed his future plan. “My next plan is to achieve something together with my wife that’s greater than all of this – to be a parent,” he said with a smile. His words showed how excited he is about starting a family.
Carlsen is married to Ella Victoria Malone (now Carlsen). She is of Norwegian and American ancestry but has lived across the globe in countries like the UK, Canada, the US, and Norway. Their wedding took place in Oslo. The couple announced earlier this year that they are expecting their first child.
Carlsen’s win at the inaugural Chess EWC
Meanwhile, Carlsen’s victory at the Esports World Cup made him $250,000 (Rs 2.18 crore) richer. After winning the tournament, Carlsen once again reiterated that there is no player in the world right now who is at his level. Carlsen has been the World No. 1 in classical chess since 2011.
Firouzja and Hikaru Nakamura, also of Team Falcons, won the second and third prizes, respectively, and took home $190,000 (Rs 1.65 crore) and $145,000 (Rs 1.26 crore). Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi finished fourth and won $115,000, which is just over Rs 1 crore.