A unique rivalry has emerged between Egyptian footballer Mohamed Salah and English player Harry Kane, extending beyond the football field to the chessboard. This mental challenge allows them to test their strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, differing from the physical demands of football. According to rankings on Chess.com, Harry Kane has a higher rating of around 1500 points, while Mohamed Salah has approximately 1400 points. This rivalry opens a new perspective on the lives of prominent football stars.
Harry Kane's interest in chess goes beyond personal enjoyment, as he has mentioned that his teammate Joshua Kimmich is a regular competitor. Kane views Kingsley Coman as one of the best chess players in Bayern Munich but admits to not daring to challenge him. On the other hand, Mohamed Salah has expressed his deep affection for chess, describing it as an integral part of his daily routine. He plays chess almost every day, with an average of 7-8 games, sometimes exceeding that number.
Mohamed Salah's connection to chess dates back to an interview with Liverpool's official website in March 2024, where he revealed his daily engagement with the game. He mentioned playing chess daily, which has become an essential part of his life beyond football. The FIFA website has also highlighted Salah's passion for chess, showcasing his desire to compete against Norwegian chess legend Magnus Carlsen. Salah's dedication to chess demonstrates his multifaceted personality and interests.
The skills required for chess, such as reading opponents' moves and anticipating their strategies, can be applied to football. Mohamed Salah believes that chess helps him think strategically, although he does not directly attribute his football performance to the game. He emphasizes the mental benefits of chess, stating that it makes him think strategically. This mental preparation can be valuable for football players, allowing them to make better decisions during games.
Harry Kane views chess as a means to relax and unwind from the pressures of professional football. He uses chess to clear his mind, focusing on each move and moment, which provides a mental escape from the demands of the sport. This perspective highlights the importance of mental well-being for athletes and the role of hobbies in maintaining a healthy balance.
Several football stars share Mohamed Salah and Harry Kane's passion for chess, including Michael Olis and Eberechi Eze. Olis, who plays for Bayern Munich, has a rating of around 1400 points and aims to reach 1500 points. Eze, an Arsenal player, won the PogChamps 6 tournament organized by Chess.com in 2025. These examples demonstrate that chess is not only a hobby but also a competitive outlet for football players.
The similarities between chess and football extend beyond competition to mental aspects, such as reading opponents and anticipating their moves. Coaches like Pep Guardiola have discussed these parallels with chess legends like Gary Kasparov and Magnus Carlsen. While some players see similarities between the two games, others believe each has its unique characteristics. This intersection of chess and football highlights the cognitive skills required for both games.
Key points
- Mohamed Salah and Harry Kane engage in a chess rivalry, showcasing their strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
- The chess rankings of Mohamed Salah and Harry Kane are around 1400 and 1500 points, respectively.
- Several football stars, including Michael Olis and Eberechi Eze, share a passion for chess, competing in tournaments and enjoying the game as a hobby.
