World chess champion Magnus Carlsen has delivered a stunning vote of confidence in 12-year-old Argentine prodigy Faustino Oro, suggesting that football legend Lionel Messi might one day be "lucky to be compared" to the young chess star. The conversation took place via the Take Take Take app, where Carlsen, a five-time world champion, discussed Oro's rapid ascent and his potential to break the record for the world's youngest grandmaster.
Carlsen's Bold Comparison: From Messi to Oro
Faustino Oro, who moved from Argentina to Spain to advance his career—a path mirroring Lionel Messi's—has earned the nickname 'Messi of Chess.' When asked about this comparison, Carlsen, a self-professed Real Madrid fan, offered a fascinating twist. "I think Faustino is a lot better at 12 than Messi was at 12," Carlsen stated. He advised Oro to embrace his journey, adding, "Just embrace it and enjoy it... one day Messi will be lucky to be compared to you if you continue (like this)."
For his part, Oro expressed happiness at being likened to his celebrated compatriot. "I like Messi for sure. I watch him a lot... I also like to be compared with Messi and I'm happy. That for sure is important," the 12-year-old said.
Focus on the Game, Not Just Records
While the chess world eagerly watches Oro's bid for the youngest grandmaster title, Carlsen offered crucial advice, urging the youngster to look beyond mere records. "I do think that there are more important things right now than records," Carlsen emphasized. He praised Oro's innate talent, noting his "wonderful positional feeling for chess which is quite rare among such young players."
Carlsen highlighted Oro's evident passion, his prolific online play, and the strong support system around him. His counsel was clear: "I would focus on just trying to keep it light, not think about results a whole lot... just enjoy it and the pieces will fall where they may."
Oro's response mirrored this mature outlook. "I don't care much about records," he asserted. "I care much more about trying to play better chess all the days, trying to improve and trying to play and enjoy the game. For me, this is the most important thing."
The Path Ahead for a Chess Prodigy
Faustino Oro is currently competing at the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championship 2023, a platform that showcases his skills against the world's best. His journey from Argentina to Spain and his rapid rise through the ranks have drawn global attention, with Magnus Carlsen's endorsement serving as a significant milestone.
Carlsen's words not only validate Oro's extraordinary potential but also set the stage for one of the most exciting narratives in modern chess. As the chess community watches, the focus remains on whether this young talent, with his balanced perspective and raw skill, will indeed rewrite the history books and perhaps, one day, have a global sports icon measured against his own legacy.
