Magnus Carlsen wins major online chess title playing on a tablet
Image: Reuters
Magnus Carlsen claimed the Chess.com Open title after defeating Jan-Krzysztof Duda in a Grand Final reset, delivering a standout performance in an entirely online event, while competing on a tablet.
Carlsen’s choice to play the tournament on a tablet rather than a traditional laptop or desktop setup stood out throughout the event, especially given the precision and speed required at the highest level of online chess. Despite the unconventional setup, the world number one navigated the competition with composure and consistency.
The final proved far from straightforward. Duda, playing on his 28th birthday, forced a reset after winning the initial four-game match 2½–½, handing Carlsen his first match loss of the tournament. Under the double-elimination format, this meant the title would be decided in a shorter, high-pressure rematch.
Chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen just won a $250,000 online chess tournament using an iPad.
He didn't have a computer and couldn't use his wife's Macbook, so he was forced to play on a touch tablet. He won anyways. pic.twitter.com/obDql5HmOpCarlsen responded emphatically in the reset. In the first game, he steadily outplayed Duda from a Tarrasch Defence structure before converting his advantage with a clean tactical finish. The second game saw Duda push aggressively in a must-win situation, sacrificing material to create complications, but the fast online time control proved decisive.
With the clock ticking down, Carlsen maintained control, neutralised Duda’s initiative, and ultimately secured victory as his opponent ran out of time.
"I didn't really plan to play this tournament until the last couple of days. I don't really have a laptop here, so I would've had to use Ella's MacBook..."
- Magnus on why he played on a tablet and not a computer. pic.twitter.com/yPlzRmQ9ssThe 2–0 result in the reset sealed the title for Carlsen, who also took home the $50,000 first prize, while Duda earned $35,000 as runner-up. Both players qualified for the Esports World Cup 2026.
Carlsen’s triumph not only highlighted his resilience under pressure but also underscored his adaptability in online formats, proving that even at the elite level, unconventional setups like a tablet can still deliver championship results.