The world-renowned chess grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura, currently ranked World No. 3, returns to compete in Norway Chess 2025! This will be Nakamura’s seventh time at Norway Chess, where his exciting games and competitive spirit have made him a favourite among fans.

Photo Credits: Portrait by Stev Bonhage / Side photos: Maria Emelianova

Notable Achievements

With a FIDE rating of 2802, Nakamura has won five U.S. Chess Championships, is the reigning FIDE World Fischer Random Chess Champion, and was the Norway Chess Champion in 2023. Beyond tournaments, Nakamura has built a large following as a chess streamer, sharing his games and insights with fans around the world. His presence, both online and at live events, continues to inspire both fellow players and the chess audience.

Nakamura on Norway Chess 2025

Nakamura shared his enthusiasm for returning to Norway Chess, emphasizing the relationships and challenges the event offers. “What excites me the most about returning to Norway Chess is seeing all the familiar faces I’ve come to know over the past decade of this event, as well as competing against the future stars of chess like Gukesh and Arjun,” Nakamura said.

When asked which competitor he was most eager to face, Nakamura added, “I am most excited to play against Wei Yi because I have only played him once or twice, whereas I’m pretty familiar with the styles of all the other players.”

Nakamura vs. Carlsen: An Exciting Match-up

Hikaru Nakamura’s return also revives one of chess’s most well-known rivalries. Magnus Carlsen, widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, has often described Nakamura as one of his toughest opponents. Fans can look forward to intense games between these two top players, as well as exciting matchups with other world-class competitors.