[mlthoughts2018]

Sure, it’s very similar to American football with situations regarding late punts or 4th down attempts. If you make it, you’re a genius, if you don’t then everyone cannot believe the risk you foolishly took, and if you punt and the other team scores late, then you’re also foolish for trusting your defense.

After the fact, the media will reinterpret the choices to fit the most compelling narrative regarding what gets clicks or views, which is often an intentionally antagonistic or divisive interpretation to stir up controversy.

When you consider that Carlsen was in the last classical match and that a blunder would mean no chance to recover, it makes even more sense. If the same position occurred in Game 5, he probably plays another 30 minutes before deciding if there’s winning potential. If he really blunders, he’s got 7 games to possibly recover.

You’re always going to be way more conservative than that in game 12.