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In a remarkable turn of events, GM Magnus Carlsen’s world-famous jeans from the 2024 World Rapid Championship have been sold at auction for an astounding $36,100. The proceeds from the sale will be donated to charity, marking a heartwarming conclusion to a story that began with controversy and ended with generosity.
The Bidding War That Captured Global Attention
In the 10-day auction, tensions mounted over fierce bidding wars until the last dramatic hour. An anonymous buyer triumphed with size-32 regular Corneliani jeans, finalizing the sale for $36,100. Bidding had been a standstill at $14,100 since February 27. However, in the last 30 minutes, bids kept coming in faster than the auctioneer could say "sold" to escalate the price to its staggering high. The buyer will also pay an additional $74 for shipping.
These Italian luxury jeans, originally priced between $300 to $500, became a fruit piece of chess history due to an infamous incident during the 2024 World Rapid Championship in New York. Tournament arbiters asked Carlsen to change his pants because they did not conform with dress code. He refused, received a $200 fine, and was barred from playing the final round of the day.
The Jeans That Made Headlines
Carlsen’s decision to forfeit the tournament sparked global discussions about dress codes in professional chess. That evening, he shared his outfit of the day on social media, a post that garnered over 12 million impressions. The jeans quickly became a symbol of Carlsen’s defiance and individuality, capturing the imagination of chess fans worldwide.
Carlsen’s Thoughts on the Auction
During the Chessable Masters, Carlsen shared his thoughts on the auction, saying:
“It was my thought from very early on that this was a fun idea. It's all going to a nice charity. Hopefully, it's something people are interested in. They're certainly up there with some of the more contemporary jeans. That's for sure.”
Proceeds to Support Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
The $36,100 raised from the auction will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children realize their potential through mentorship and support.
Artis Stevens, CEO of BBBSA, expressed his gratitude for Carlsen’s gesture, stating:
“Chess has long been a favorite activity for Bigs and Littles in our program. It creates opportunities for mentorship, critical thinking, and lifelong connections.”
He added that the proceeds will be used to expand the organization’s efforts, including organizing chess clinics and community events to equip youth with essential life skills.
A Legacy Beyond the Chessboard
Magnus Carlsen’s decision to auction his jeans not only highlights his commitment to giving back but also underscores the power of sports to inspire positive change. What began as a controversial moment in chess history has transformed into an opportunity to support a worthy cause, proving that even the most unexpected items can make a significant impact.
As the chess world continues to celebrate Carlsen’s achievements on the board, this act of generosity ensures his legacy extends far beyond the game itself.
