See the
ChessBase story regarding Magnus' amazing attainment, which is now official. Note several things about this all-time top ten list.
First, Carlsen's achievement at 19 is nothing short of amazing. I anxiously wait to see just how much he will achieve.
Second, taken by itself, Fischer's inclusion on this list 38 years after reaching his peak rating is also amazing, but it is particularly so when one accounts for almost 40 years of inflation. If memory serves, Fischer actually lost rating points by defeating World Champion Spassky.
Third, Kasparov's and Karpov's positions on the list are noteworthy because of the age of their ratings. Karpov remains in the top ten despite the lapse of sixteen years and the attendant inflation, and Kasparov still holds the first position eleven years after his peak. Neither Carlsen, nor anyone else, will likely bump him down anytime soon.
Finally, only one country has more than one player on this list. Unsurprisingly, it is Russia with four.
