Magnus Carlsen sets new benchmark with 9/9 score at Grenke Chess Freestyle Open; earns new Bobby Fischer comparison

Magnus Carlsen’s nine-game winning streak at the Grenke Chess Freestyle Open 2025 is being compared to the great Bobby Fischer’s dominance at the 1963-64 US Championship. The fact the Carlsen’s win came in Freestyle Chess format makes it even more special.

World No.1 Magnus Carlsen outdid himself to achieve a perfect 9/9 score as he won the Grenke Chess Freestyle Open 2025 on Monday. In fact, Carlsen had won the tournament in round eight itself and achieving a perfect score has strengthened his legacy further as fans are comparing it to legendary chess player Bobby Fischer’s 11/11 score in the 1963-64 US Championship.

Carlsen had won nine matches on the trot at the SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz Croatia 2023; however, that achievement came in the Blitz time control. The victories at the Grenke Chess Freestyle Open 2025 came in Classical time control.

It has to be noted that Carlsen only faced one player rated above 2700 Elo in the tournament, which was Germany’s Vincent Keymer in Round 9. However, the 34-year-old Norwegian defeated five players who were rated between 2600 and 2700.

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