Magnus Carlsen began the December 16 Titled Tuesday with a second-round loss to Indian GM Iniyan P. He then drew once and finished with victories over Blübaum, Nakamura, and Grischuk. In the final game, Grischuk lost on time in a winning position, allowing Carlsen to finish with 9.5/11 points and secure first place. On the “Take Take Take” stream on YouTube during the tournament, Carlsen commented on the outcome.

Magnus Carlsen

Magnus Carlsen

Five-time world champion

“Sorry, that was super dirty, but I mean, I’m out of the prizes, I’m out of the top 3 if I don’t do that.

I would have loved to win on good technique rather than dirty flagging, but it’s name of the game. We’re playing blitz without increment. But yeah, that didn’t feel fantastic

I should be ashamed. Well, I’m a little bit ashamed, but I’m not too ashamed. I think it’s it’s part of the game. I like winning, especially when I don’t deserve it.

Have a good holiday and be kind, don’t flag!”

Titled Tuesday is Chess.com’s weekly 11-round Swiss tournament for titled players, occurring every Tuesday. Since 2022, Magnus Carlsen has won Titled Tuesday 43 times.

Credit: Lennart Ootes