The world of chess has undergone a remarkable transformation since the COVID-19 pandemic. With people turning to online platforms for entertainment and intellectual stimulation, chess surged in popularity. The success of “The Queen’s Gambit” on Netflix further propelled the game into the mainstream. This wave of interest gave rise to a new generation of chess influencers who have leveraged social media to share their passion, teach the game, and entertain millions. These influencers have made chess more accessible and engaging, attracting a diverse and younger audience.
Magnus Carlsen: The true Ambassador of the game
Magnus Carlsen has reigned as the World Chess Champion for a decade, from 2013 to 2023. Known for his unparalleled skill and strategic brilliance, Carlsen has also made significant strides beyond the chessboard.
In 2020, he was recognized as the highest-earning eSports player. As a Puma brand ambassador, he has brought a fresh, athletic image to the world of chess. Carlsen’s prowess isn’t limited to chess; he’s also one of the top in Premier League Fantasy Football, showcasing his versatility and strategic thinking.
His collaboration with Manchester City and legendary coach Pep Guardiola has further expanded his influence, drawing attention from football fans worldwide. Beyond his playing career, Carlsen is a prominent voice in the chess community. His startup, Play Magnus Group, was recently acquired by Chess.com, merging to create one of the largest chess platforms globally. This merger is set to elevate both Carlsen’s and chess’s popularity even further.
YouTube: 1.28M subscribers
Instagram: 1.5M followers
X – 1M followers
Hikaru Nakamura: The Chess Streamer
Hikaru Nakamura, often referring to himself as a full-time streamer and part-time chess player, has revolutionized the chess world through his engaging online presence. Since he began streaming, Nakamura has not only grown the game in numbers but also in popularity and accessibility.
Known as the “Speed Chess Monster,” Nakamura’s incredible ability to calculate moves at lightning speed has captivated audiences worldwide. His streams are a blend of high-level chess and entertainment, making chess more approachable and fun for a broader audience.
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Nakamura has successfully attracted sponsors to the game, further elevating its profile. On August 27, 2020, Nakamura signed with the esports organization Team SoloMid (TSM) for a six-figure sum, making him one of the first chess players to join an esports team. On June 14, 2022, he joined Misfits Gaming as a content creator and influencer.
His signature pineapple t-shirts and laid-back vibes have made him a beloved figure on the internet.
Twitch: 1.9M followers
YouTube: 2.46M subscribers
Instagram 962K followers
Levy Rozman: The Internet’s Chess Teacher and Celebrity
Levy Rozman, aka Gotham Chess, has become a sensation in the chess world. His engaging videos have made him the go-to chess teacher online.
“I have watched so many of Levy’s videos … I was falling asleep to his videos every night,” says Henry Patten, the 2024 Wimbledon Men’s Doubles Champion. When top athletes are learning from him, you know Levy is a true chess celebrity.
Levy’s profile reads “The Internet’s Chess setup Teacher,” and he lives up to it with his fun and approachable style. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, his videos make learning chess enjoyable. With his witty commentary and deep knowledge, Levy has turned chess into a trendy activity.
So, if you want to improve your chess skills or just be entertained, Levy Rozman is your guy. He’s not just a teacher; he’s a chess superstar.
Twitch: 1.1M followers
YouTube: 5.27M subscribers
Instagram: 1.3M followers
BotezLive: The Dynamic Chess Duo
The Botez sisters, Alexandra and Andrea, have taken the chess world by storm with their quirky ideas, fun videos, and vibrant personalities. They have made chess cooler and more accessible for many girls.
Alexandra Botez, a Stanford graduate, has brought her innovative approach to the Chess world. Their brainchild, Chess Champs a Chess tournament was a hit, featuring numerous female content creators and chess players.
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Andrea has also made waves with her chess boxing match against Dina Belenkaya, which garnered an impressive 2.3 million views on YouTube. Together, the Botez sisters have redefined what it means to be a chess influencer, bringing energy, creativity, and a fresh perspective to the game.
Twitch: 1.3M followers
YouTube: 1.67M subscribers
Instagram: 259K(Botez Live) + 819k (Andrea) + 835k (Alexandra)
As the chess community continues to grow, it’s exciting to speculate who might emerge as the next big influencer. Will it be a rising star with a unique approach to the game, or perhaps a seasoned player who finds new ways to connect with audiences? Who do you think will dominate the numbers game in the future, and which upcoming influencer would you like to see join this elite list? The chess world is full of possibilities, and the next big name could be just a move away!
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