Arjun Erigaisi commented on Magnus Carlsen’s games at the Esports World Cup 2026. Erigaisi says Carlsen is still the best player in the world, and notes that he feels confident when playing against Magnus.

Arjun Erigaisi

Arjun Erigaisi

India's No. 1

“Magnus is still there. He is still the best.

But recently, Pragg beat him at Norway Chess, and I also had pretty decent results against him. So, I’m confident that if we just stay focused and do all the right things, we will be able to do well in the near future.

I believe improvement is something that happens gradually. When it was one-sided, it was around 2022 where there was a clear strength difference, as well as the nervousness of playing Magnus for the first time.

Gradually, in 2023-24, I was losing matches, but they were pretty close, and I wasn’t just getting crushed like earlier. Then slowly, I started winning some games as well. I feel like gradually I improved my level.

Of course, he is still World’s No. 1 in all formats, so I do respect him. But in general, I am happy with my chances and confident against him.”

The Esports World Cup 2026 took place from August 11 to 15, at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles in France. Magnus Carlsen chose Nihal Sarin as his opponent in the Playoff instead of Arjun Erigaisi. Arjun was eliminated in the first round and did not get to play against Magnus. Complete head-to-head record of Arjun and Magnus is 17-39 according to Chesstv.com.

Credit: Michal Walusza / FIDE