In the heart of Malta, nestled in the bustling streets of Birkirkara, lies the headquarters of a company that’s been making waves globally. The company? Play Magnus Group, and the man behind it? None other than Alex Borg, a name that’s become synonymous with chess in Malta and beyond. But Borg isn’t just a chess enthusiast; he’s a businessman with a unique perspective on criticism.

From Chess to Business

Borg’s journey began in the world of chess. A former Maltese chess champion, he represented Malta in numerous international tournaments. But it was his move into the business world that truly set him apart. In 2013, he founded Play Magnus, a company that brought chess into the digital age with an app that allowed users to play against a virtual Magnus Carlsen, the Norwegian chess grandmaster.

Today, Play Magnus Group is a global entity, listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange, with offices in Malta, Norway, and the UK. It’s a far cry from its humble beginnings in Borg’s native Malta. But how does Borg view the criticism that’s often thrown at him and his company?

“They Criticise Us, Then They Copy Us”

“Criticism is a part of life,” Borg says, leaning back in his chair in his Birkirkara office. “But what I’ve noticed is that those who criticise us often end up copying us.” He chuckles, a glint in his eye. “It’s flattering, in a way. It means we’re doing something right.”

Borg isn’t just talking about his critics in Malta. He’s referring to the global chess community, and even other tech companies. The Play Magnus app, with its innovative features and user-friendly interface, has set a new standard in the world of digital chess. And Borg believes that other companies are taking notice.

“We’ve seen our ideas pop up in other apps,” he says. “But that’s okay. It’s the nature of the game. We just keep moving forward, keep innovating.”

Malta: A Hub for Innovation

Borg’s optimism about Malta’s potential is infectious. He believes that the island nation, with its strategic location and business-friendly environment, is set to become a hub for innovation. “We have the talent, the infrastructure, and the mindset,” he says. “We just need to keep pushing, keep challenging ourselves.”

Borg’s story is a testament to this. He took a local passion – chess – and turned it into a global business. He’s a living example of what’s possible when you dare to dream big and embrace criticism as a stepping stone to success.

As for the future, Borg is with characteristic confidence. “We have big plans,” he says. “We’re not just a chess company anymore. We’re a tech company, a gaming company. We’re constantly evolving, constantly growing. And we’re doing it all from right here in Malta.”

“Criticism is a part of life. But what I’ve noticed is that those who criticise us often end up copying us.” – Alex Borg