Magnus Carlsen, a five-time classical world champion, stated his intent to win the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championship, asserting that fatherhood has not diminished his competitive drive. He acknowledged India's D. Gukesh as a potential rival, noting Gukesh beat him in a previous tournament. Carlsen humorously described Gukesh as a "youngster" in his book, recalling he was a top-50 player when Gukesh was born. Carlsen also mentioned his ban from a Rapid competition due to a dress code violation.