India, Aug. 16 -- Magnus Carlsen remained slightly under the weather throughout the Esports World Cup in Paris. Yet, his dominant title run hardly suggested he was struggling physically. The media had been waiting to speak with him from the very first day, but with the Norwegian continuing to advance through the tournament, and not keeping a 100 per cent, that opportunity presented itself after he lifted the trophy. Reflecting on chess's transition into the esports format, Carlsen admitted he would have loved to take a day off to recover, but that's simply not possible in a format that is quick, intense and relentless.

Despite not being in the best of shape, Carlsen produced a near-flawless performance throughout the tournament, includin...