Magnus Carlsen — understanding the aura of a Norwegian sporting superstar

There’s something about Magnus Carlsen. Like him or hate him, the Norwegian chess superstar is hard to ignore.

He’s probably the greatest sports icon in a nation where football rules the popularity charts and is most spoken about with the FIFA World Cup on the horizon.

The 35-year-old is the player to beat every time he sits at the board — irrespective of the format.

It’s no different at Norway Chess with people — right from the tournament director Kjell Madland to the denizens — rooting for Carlsen in his home event.

“Of course, it’s a huge thing that Norway has a player like Magnus,” said Madland, adding “It’s not easy to understand his impact. And of course, replacing him is not going to be easy.”

Meanwhile, a young man, who was helping his little son move giant chess pieces on an oversized board at Deichman Bjørvika where the prestigious event is being held, said Carlsen’s exploits over the years have been phenomenal and felt his fame had probably reduced because he made winning a habit.

“But years ago, when he started winning world titles for the first time, Carlsen was probably even more popular because it was all new,” he said.

Staff at the Scandic hotel here said it was hard to think the local hero could be beaten.

“You cannot beat him here. That’s unthinkable,” said Gustav Nerland, receptionist at the hotel and a huge fan of the World No. 1.

His colleague Eiler Kongsrud nodded in agreement and said “Magnus is a great champion.”

There is something about Carlsen which continues to befuddle his opponents and ensures his long-running supremacy.