Garry Kasparov hails Carlsen’s vision, hunger as world No 1 plays down comparisons: 'Magnus's view is far and unobstructed'

Chess legend Garry Kasparov has praised Magnus Carlsen’s vision, mastery at the sport and hunger for success as the world No 1 recently rejected the comparison with the Russian great. Carlsen, who has often been compared to six-time Classical world champion Garry Kasparov, recently won his 20th world title by clinching the World Blitz Championships 2025 in Doha.

After his thrilling win, Carlsen was questioned whether he feels he now has a more successful career than Kasparov. The 35-year-old Norwegian, however, was quick to shoot down any debate and discussion as he said that his focus was on the present and not the past.

“Just let me enjoy the title. I think other people can take that debate rather than me. But Gary has had an absolutely amazing career. I’m mostly concerned with what is happening right now and that’s it,” Carlsen said.

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Kasparov lauds Carlsen’s mastery and humility  

Reacting to Carlsen’s comments, Kasparov has praised the five-time Classical world champion Carlsen for his humility. Kasparov said that while Carlsen has benefited from the legacy of those who came before him, he can see further ahead than everyone else.

Kasparov added that just like a true champion, Carlsen doesn’t dwell on the past, but keeps pushing hard for more wins.

“Even the world champions stand on the shoulders of giants, but Magnus’s view is far and unobstructed. And if you want to keep collecting world championship trophies, you don’t stop to count the ones you already have,” Kasparov said on X.

Even the world champions stand on the shoulders of giants, but Magnus's view is far and unobstructed. And if you want to keep collecting world championship trophies, you don’t stop to count the ones you already have! https://t.co/NtbSeO2LYv

— Garry Kasparov (@Kasparov63) January 2, 2026

The admiration for each other, however, is mutual. The highest rated player of all time, Carlsen, had said in 2003 that Garry Kasparov “is the greatest player” of all time.

“I’ve always said that I think Garry Kasparov is the greatest player who’s ever lived. As for myself, let me continue playing the game that I love for a few more years, and then we will see,” Carlsen had said.