FIDE, the International Chess Federation, named Magnus Carlsen of Norway and Judit Polgar of Hungary among the century’s premier grandmasters. The announcement appeared on FIDE’s official page on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, as part of a centennial celebration that gathered chess communities from around the world. The recognition highlights the enduring influence these two players have had on the game and signals a benchmark for generations of players across North America and beyond. It also reflects the federation’s effort to connect the sport’s rich history with its evolving present in schools, clubs, and national federations. This moment serves as a reminder that chess excellence travels beyond borders and continues to inspire new entrants into clubs, classrooms, and community programs across the continent.
Carlsen and Polgar received their awards at a gala in Budapest marking FIDE’s 100th anniversary. The ceremony brought together former champions, current competitors, officials, and fans who watched as the two legends were publicly recognized for their achievements. Attendees included leading figures from North American chess organizations, media covering the game’s growth in online formats, and players who see this centennial moment as a bridge between traditional over-the-board play and modern, digitally connected audiences. The event underscored chess’s global appeal and its capacity to inspire new players to join clubs, enroll in classes, and pursue improvement. The festivities also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand youth participation, improve access to training resources, and celebrate the diversity of chess talent on both sides of the Atlantic.
Carlsen has long sat at or near the top of the sport’s competitive ladder. The Norwegian star won the world championship in classical chess in 2013 and defended the title on multiple occasions, cementing a decade of dominance through deep understanding and relentless preparation. In recent seasons he has remained a magnet for fans, sponsors, and organizers, while also exploring roles beyond pure competition, including analysis, mentoring, and sponsorship work. He has chosen not to participate in the latest Candidates Tournament, a decision that has sparked discussion about how best to balance tradition with new formats. In North American circuits his name continues to draw strong turnout for major events in Canada and the United States, illustrating the cross-continental interest in elite chess and the ongoing effort to grow youth programs, schools, and community clubs in places like Toronto, New York, Montreal, Chicago, and Vancouver. The impact of his presence resonates with clubs and schools across the region, where organizers emphasize structured training, local leagues, and outreach to aspiring young talents who look up to his career as a model of sustained excellence.
Polgar retired from professional play in 2014 after a career that reshaped women’s chess. She led the FIDE women’s rankings for decades and won gold with the Hungarian team at the 1988 and 1990 World Chess Olympiads, along with silver medals in later years when the competition included both women’s and open sections. Since retirement, Polgar has remained a prominent voice in chess education and advocacy, mentoring young players and contributing to outreach efforts that broaden participation and visibility for women in chess. The world of chess continues to evolve through programs and tournaments supported by Polgar’s ongoing work, helping to keep the game accessible and engaging for players of all ages in North America and beyond. The Candidates Tournament remains a key part of the championship ladder, though its format and scheduling have adapted to the sport’s shifting landscape and growing online audiences.