My former coach, Simen Agdestein, used to be the best player in Norway.

Kids love games and chess is a game where you have to sit down and concentrate and it just helps in every way.

My father, a fine chess player himself, has been a massive influence throughout my life.

I think with chess as with everything, marketing is the main issue.

There wasn't any particular player I modeled my game after. I tried to learn from everyone and create my own style. I studied past players... Truth be told I never had a favorite player. It's just not my nature to go around idolizing people. I just go try to learn.

I played like a child!

For me right now I think being the world number one is a bigger deal than being the world champion because I think it shows better who plays the best chess. That sounds self-serving but I think it's also right.