Norwegian Chess Champ Carlsen Risks Fine for Being a Sore Loser

After losing game eight, the only decisive one in the hard-fought match so far, Norwegian Magnus Carlsen committed yet another mistake, which may prove to be costly money-wise.

​As an obviously disappointed and annoyed Magnus Carlsen appeared at the press conference, it turned out that he had to wait for contender Karjakin, who was busy handling additional interviews. Enraged, Carlsen stormed out of the room waving his arms, without having said a word to either international journalist pool or his fellow Norwegians from Norwegian national broadcaster NRK. Sergey Karjakin had to answer reporters' questions alone.

According to World Championship regulations by the World Chess Federation (FIDE), all players are required to attend official press conferences. Any violation of this rule can be punished with an up to ten percent deduction from the prize money. Since the prize pool includes roughly $1 million, Carlsen may end up being penalized with $64,000 or $43,000 depending on whether he retains his title or relinquishes the chess crown.

Carlsen's behavior stirred mixed reactions from the chess crowd.

"It reminds me of Petter Northug and John McEnroe [Norwegian star skier and US tennis legend, both noted for their violent outbursts of anger and erratic behavior], author and chess expert Atle Grønn told Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten.

​On the other hand, Karjakin's manager Kirill Zangalis showed more understanding for the Norwegian's outbreak.

"I understand Magnus. Of course, he was disappointed," Zangalis told Aftenposten.

Both world champion Carlsen and contender Karjakin are former chess prodigies, who represent the "computer chess" generation. At present, Carlsen is trailing to Karjakin nicknamed "Minister of Defense" 3.5-4.5, with four games to follow.