Chess and soccer form an unexpected allianceAFP, LONDONErling Haaland and Mohamed Salah are among the Premier League stars “addicted” to chess, helping to spark a surge in the game’s popularity among younger people. Norwegian chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen juggles a soccer ball prior to the fifth round of the Tata Steel Chess Tournament at the Philips-Stadion in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, in 2020. Chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, a five-time world champion, is a huge soccer fan and the Norwegian’s love for both games has played a role in the unexpected crossover. On the surface, the contemplative, cerebral nature of chess is a contrast to the physicality and aggression of soccer. For Kane, his true love remains soccer, leaving chess as the perfect way to relax.

Source: Taipei Times March 31, 2026 17:46 UTC