Magnus Carlsen commented on his loss to American GM Wesley So in the 5th round of Norway Chess 2026. Magnus explains that it’s hard for him to make decisions, and jokes that he would prefer not to have this game broadcast.

Magnus Carlsen

Magnus Carlsen

World's No. 1

“It’s just not working… He does a lot of good things and creates problems for me, but what I’m doing is not good enough. My thoughts are in a muddle.

I have trouble making decisions, and the decisions I do make are not particularly good. A lot of what I do is just stupid.

There are two sets of screens on stage showing the games. Wesley might have to agree, but personally, I wouldn’t mind if one of the screens showing our game was replaced with a broadcast of the PSG vs. Arsenal match…

I’m playing too complicated for the state I’m in right now. But I need to win games.”

The Norway Chess 2026 takes place from May 25 to June 5, at the Deichman Bjorvika public library, Oslo. Magnus Carlsen is in last place with 4.5/9 points after the first part of the double Round-Robin.

Credit: Michal Walusza / Norway Chess