American GM Hans Moke Niemann spoke about the earnings of elite GMs. Niemann notes the importance of endorsements and sponsorships, discusses his income, and talks about offers to play for another country.

Hans Moke Niemann

Hans Moke Niemann

American GM

“Let’s say you’re a Top-3 player in the world — like Magnus or Hikaru — you’re probably making $1,000,000 a year, depending on your endorsements.

If you’re a Top-5 player in the world, you’re probably making $600,000 to $800,000. If you’re a Top-10 player, depending on your sponsors, I’d say $300,000 to $500,000.

If you’re a Top-20 player in the world, you’re lucky to make $100,000 to $150,000. And if you’re a Top-40 player… You’re lucky to make $100,000 a year. There’s a huge drop off.

Last year I think I won around $350,000 in prize money, which is not bad. But some people have more endorsements. I’m kind of blacklisted in the American community. If I wasn’t blacklisted, I’d be making much more.

For example, there were countries that offered me to represent them. And if I’d just switched to some other country, they would have paid me a ridiculous amount of money. I’ve been offered by multiple places — I’ve got a diverse heritage.

But I wouldn’t do that, I’m a very patriotic American.”

Magnus Carlsen earned nearly $1.2 million in 2025 participating in tournaments such as the Esports World Cup, Freestyle Chess, Clutch Chess, etc. Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov earned $200,000 for winning the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026. Reigning World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju received $1,300,000 for winning the FIDE World Championship 2024. American GM Hans Moke Niemann earned nearly $550,000 in prize money over his career, according to data from liquipedia.net.

Credit: Harry Gielen