I was amazed by the enthusiasm of the Armenian people. Magnus Carlsen

YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS: Notwithstanding one of the ancient sports of the world chess is considered to be a sport, but it is as difficult as science if we talk about mastering it. For Norwegian Grand Master Magnus Carlsen, who is leading FIDE world ranking Armenian Grand Master Levon Aronyan is among his most difficult opponents. Armenpress had an exclusive interview with GMMagnus Carlsen.

-What do know about Armenia?

-I know a bit about the country, even though I have never visited Armenia yet. I was amazed by the enthusiasm of the Armenian peoplewhen their team won the Chess Olympics this year. I saw a clip onyoutube, I think, of the reception the players got when they returned

after their victory. I hope to visit Armenia soon, perhaps the countryis ready to organize a strong tournament in the future? That would begood.

-What information do you posses about Armenian chess and your point

of view in connection to it?

-Armenian chess is very strong. I know a lot of the players and I ofcourse follow their games. I think the spirit among the players mustbe very positive, since they do particularly well in team

competitions.

-Your stance about Levon Aronyan, what kind of opponnet he is for you?

-Levon is of course one of the toughest competitors, maybe thetoughest. We have had many hard fought battles with several decisiveresults. I think our games usually are very interesting as Levon is anincredibly creative player and a tremendous fighter as well.

-News are speculated you are turning to Garik Kasparov for advice?

What kind of consultant he is for you and what for you turn mainly to

him?

I had Kasparov as a coach for one year during 2009/2010. This wasof course very useful, as he has tremendous experience and know-howwhich I could benefit from. We have only had friendly contact since westopped training together.

-Do you like when you are compared with Mozart( chess Mozart)? When

you got the nick name and who authored it?

-Mozart is not the worst person to be compared with, so I don't think Ican complain. I think Washington Post was the first to do thecomparison in 2004. Of course the media like such labels, and that'sperhaps why this has been around since.

Interview by Varvara Hayrapetyan.