Ben Mezrich offers fresh details on the Magnus Carlsen and Hans Niemann dispute in his new book Checkmate. The work draws on interviews with those involved in the scandal that rocked modern chess. An ebook version appeared in April with the hardcover set for release in June.
Mezrich describes Niemann as a prodigy with complex traits. He notes the player's solitary upbringing and belief in his own destiny for greatness. Mezrich also addresses Carlsen's decision to imply cheating after a 2022 loss in St. Louis, stating that the Norwegian acted without sufficient evidence at the time. He adds that Carlsen has not changed his view since the events four years ago.