England GM David Howell announced his retirement from professional chess on March 20 on X. According to his compatriot, England GM Simon Williams, he has started a career as a florist.

The shop — ‘64 Flowers’ — is located in Oslo, Norway, and is owned by David Howell. Williams posted a photo of Howell in a florist shop, where he is arranging a bouquet.

David responded to the post with an announcement of his retirement from chess and his change of career:

England GM David Howell (2668) is England’s No. 1 and a prominent commentator. Howell achieved the grandmaster title in 2007, achieved a FIDE rating of 2700+ in August 2015, and won the British Chess Championship in 2009, 2013, and 2014.

Credit: Simon Williams X