 "‘This was so tough…’: Carlsen opens up on rollercoaster ride that led to 21st world title, hopes to ‘just relax’ for now")
Magnus Carlsen added another historic achievement to his legendary career after winning the first official FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship in Germany. The Norwegian star defeated Fabiano Caruana 2.5-1.5 in the final held at Schloss Weissenhaus on February 15.
With this victory, Carlsen became the first-ever official FIDE Freestyle Chess World Champion and claimed his 21st world title in the process. The tournament was special because this was the first time FIDE collaborated with freestyle chess, and many top players were eager to win this crown.
The final match between Carlsen and Caruana was closely fought. The first two games ended in draws, with both players showing solid play. In the third game, Carlsen had the black pieces and was under pressure for some time. However, he found his one big opportunity and turned the game around to secure a crucial win.
The fourth and final game ended in a draw, which was enough for Carlsen to seal the title with a 2.5-1.5 scoreline.
what's 9+10 pic.twitter.com/bimf5gaeJg
— Magnus Carlsen (@MagnusCarlsen) February 16, 2026
Carlsen reacts to winning the title
After the win, Carlsen admitted that it was not easy at all. Carlsen’s emotional reaction showed how much he still cares about delivering results and winning titles.
“This was so tough and honestly in this final I had one chance and I grabbed it. I’m exhausted after the tournament. I’m really excited after playing a lot of chess last week to be able to just relax, be with my family, see my son more than just a couple of times in the day because I’m playing a lot of chess and he’s asleep when I get back. So, yeah, just really satisfied,” Carlsen said.
Before coming into the tournament, Carlsen had won both the rapid and blitz titles at the World Rapid & Blitz Championships in Doha, Qatar. He also won the Norway Chess and Esports World Cup last year to maintain his world number one ranking.
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