Many point to the Netflix hit “The Queen’s Gambit” as a possible starting point [1]. The series gave chess a boost the sport had not seen since 1972. But social media also plays a role. With chess content, or as it’s colloquially called, “#ChessTok,” taking over TikTok, it’s no surprise that teens want to be on the trend.
Add a scandal involving cheating allegations between chess masters Hans Niemann and Magnus Carlsenas well as the growing popularity of chess on Twitch and YouTube, and you have the perfect recipe for a youth chess revolution.
But, are the teenagers good at chess? Not necessarily, but that’s the charm of it all. It’s not just about being good, but about community, fun and trying something new.
It is clear that chess is no longer seen as just a “geek” game for the extra smart. Now it’s a game for everyone, regardless of age or gender. So the next time you see a group of teenagers deeply focused on their cellphones, they may very well be in the middle of an intense chess match.
About the Netflix series Queen’s Gambit
Queen’s Gambit is one of Netflix’s biggest series hits. In the first 28 days, 62 million households watched the series according to Netflix [2]. The series is about young Beth Harmon played by Anya Taylor-Joy and her struggle and obsession to become the world’s best chess player.
About the Hans Niemann and Magnus Carlsen scandal
Norwegian Magnus Carlsen is considered one of the greatest chess players in history. The dispute began when Magnus Carlsen accused Hans Niemann of cheating after a loss in the Sinquefield Cup 2022 [3]. Hans then chose to sue Magnus for $100 million for defamation. Since June 2023, both sides have negotiated and agreed to drop the lawsuit and move forward without further litigation [4].