Magnus Carlsen’s controversial jeans fetch Rs 31 lakh at auction

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Mar 2, 2025, 17:18 IST

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Magnus Carlsen's jeans auctioned for $36,100, significantly captivating the chess community. Originally priced between $300-$500, the jeans gained notoriety during the World Rapid Championship. The proceeds are donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, enhancing their chess clinics and mentorship programs, thus reflecting Carlsen's commitment to both principle and philanthropy.

Magnus Carlsen’s controversial jeans fetch Rs 31 lakh at auction

Magnus Carlsen (Photo Credit: @FIDE_chess on X)

NEW DELHI: The sale of Magnus Carlsen's jeans at an auction for a staggering $36,100 (Rs 31 lakh approximately) has garnered significant attention from the chess community and the media worldwide.
The anonymous bidder's willingness to engage in a bidding war and ultimately secure the world number-one's size-32 regular-fit Corneliani jeans at such a high price is a testament to the iconic status of the garment and the reverence for Carlsen's achievements.
The jeans, originally retailing between $300 and $500, became a piece of chess history after the controversial moment during the World Rapid Championship in New York last December.

Carlsen's refusal to change his attire, despite being instructed by tournament arbiters to comply with the dress code, led to his forfeiture of the final round and sparked discussions about dress codes in professional chess.
Carlsen's decision to donate the proceeds to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring and supporting children, adds a philanthropic dimension to the event.
Artis Stevens, the CEO of BBBSA, expressed gratitude for Carlsen's gesture, saying, "Chess has long been a favorite activity for Bigs and Littles in our program. It creates opportunities for mentorship, critical thinking, and lifelong connections."
The auction's success not only underscores the enduring popularity of chess but also highlights the power of iconic moments and memorabilia in capturing the imagination of fans and collectors alike.
The jeans, once a subject of controversy, have now become a symbol of Carlsen's unwavering commitment to his principles and a catalyst for supporting a worthy cause.

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TOI Sports Desk

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