Is Magnus Carlsen A-List?
Yes — Magnus Carlsen is above A-list, ranked S tier as an icon with generational cultural impact.
Reached A-list in 2013
World Champion
Ranking Timeline
Grandmaster Title
Carlsen becomes a grandmaster at the age of 13, signaling his arrival as a chess prodigy.
Breaks 2800 Elo
Carlsen becomes the fifth player to break the 2800 Elo rating barrier, solidifying his position among the world's elite.
World Champion
Carlsen defeats Viswanathan Anand to become the World Chess Champion.
Achieves Peak Rating
Carlsen reaches a peak rating of 2882, the highest in history, cementing his dominance.
Continues World Domination
Carlsen successfully defends his World Championship title against Fabiano Caruana in a close match.
Relinquishes World Title
Carlsen relinquishes his World Championship title, citing lack of motivation, but continues to dominate other formats.
Last updated: February 23, 2026