The first World Championship in Freestyle Chess has taken place in Schleswig-Holstein after a lengthy dispute, culminating in a final at Schloss Weissenhaus. Norwegian chess star Magnus Carlsen emerged victorious, defeating American player Fabiano Caruana in a tightly contested match. The final score was 2.5 to 1.5 in favor of Carlsen, who acknowledged that this might not have been one of his most convincing victories.

Carlsen, currently ranked as the number one player in the world and the reigning blitz chess champion, competed in four games against Caruana, who had advanced to the finals by overcoming German player Vincent Keymer in the semifinals. The innovative format of Freestyle Chess permits players to randomize their pieces' arrangement on the back rank, thereby disrupting conventional opening and defense strategies that typically dominate traditional chess games.

This championship marks a significant milestone in the chess world, not only showcasing the adaptability and skill of revered players like Carlsen but also highlighting the evolving nature of the sport. The unique format presents new challenges and strategies, potentially attracting a broader audience to chess and increasing its popularity across different demographics, especially among younger players.