Magnus Carlsen Backs Hikaru Nakamura Amid Criticism Following Candidates Tournament Performance
Magnus Carlsen Backs Hikaru Nakamura Amid Criticism Following Candidates Tournament
Date: May 02, 2026
In a show of solidarity, Magnus Carlsen has publicly defended his close friend and fellow chess player, Hikaru Nakamura, amidst a wave of criticism following Nakamura’s disappointing performance at the FIDE Candidates Tournament. Despite being the highest-rated player in the tournament, Nakamura finished fifth, winning only one game, while 20-year-old Javokhir Sindarov claimed the title.
Nakamura’s qualification for the Candidates sparked debate, as he secured his spot through FIDE circuit points earned by winning smaller open tournaments, opting out of major events like the Sinquefield Cup and Grand Swiss. This decision has led some fans to question his credentials, particularly after his lackluster showing in the tournament.
Carlsen, however, staunchly defended Nakamura, asserting that he remains the second-best chess player in the world, regardless of recent results. “I don’t think that’s a very hot take,” Carlsen stated in a video shared by Team Liquid Chess. “The rating list and results in top tournaments of all formats say that he’s the second best. He’s had a fantastic resurgence of his career after COVID that has continued to this day. And he certainly deserves that.”
The criticism has not been limited to fans; Russian Grandmaster Ian Nepomniachtchi remarked that Nakamura has become “first a chess content creator and later a player,” suggesting that his focus on streaming and content creation may have detracted from his competitive edge.
Carlsen Reflects on His Own Career
In addition to defending Nakamura, Carlsen took the opportunity to reflect on his own career. The five-time world champion expressed that he remains unsatisfied with his achievements, despite relinquishing the world title in 2022. “No, I’m not satisfied. I’m never satisfied,” he remarked. “I’m very happy with a lot of my play, but I’m not done yet.”
Carlsen recently returned to classical chess for the first time in 2026, drawing against India’s Arjun Erigaisi at the TePe Sigeman & Co Chess Tournament, marking a significant moment in his ongoing chess journey.
As the chess community continues to discuss Nakamura’s future and Carlsen’s ambitions, one thing remains clear: both players are determined to prove their mettle on the global stage, regardless of the challenges they face.