Why compare Magnus Carlsen and Sergey Karjakin?

Karjakin faced Carlsen in the 2016 World Chess Championship, where Carlsen successfully defended his title in a closely contested match.

Magnus Carlsen

Key numbers

  • World Championship Titles5
  • World Rapid Titles6
  • World Blitz Titles9
  • FIDE Ratings2841 (June 2026)
  • Peak Rating2882 (May 2014)

Top honours

  • World Chess Champion2013 – 2023
  • World Rapid Chess ChampionSix-time champion
  • World Blitz Chess ChampionNine-time champion
  • FIDE Freestyle Chess World ChampionReigning champion
  • Highest FIDE Rating2882 (May 2014)
VS

Sergey Karjakin

Key numbers

  • FIDE Rating2772
  • World Championship Matches1
  • Wins Against Carlsen0

Top honours

  • World Rapid Chess Champion2012
  • World Cup Winner2015