Controversy Erupts: GM Ohanyan’s Outburst After Defeat to Nihal Sarin in Titled Tuesday
Ohanyan’s Outburst Sparks Controversy After Losing to Nihal Sarin in Titled Tuesday
Last Updated: February 26, 2026, 17:19 IST
In the world of chess, known for its calm and strategic gameplay, emotions can sometimes boil over. This was evident during TakeTakeTake’s Titled Tuesday, where Indian Grandmaster Nihal Sarin faced off against Armenia’s Emin Ohanyan in a high-stakes blitz match that ended in unexpected drama.
The game reached a nail-biting climax with a rook versus bishop endgame, both players holding a pawn each. While Sarin appeared to have the upper hand, time was not on his side, and he faced the looming threat of losing on time. Just when it seemed Ohanyan would secure victory, a critical mistake turned the tide. Ohanyan, in a moment of anticipation, premoved his piece, allowing Sarin to capitalize and capture the rook, shifting the momentum dramatically.
Ohanyan’s reaction was swift and shocking. In a moment of visible frustration, he stood up and directed an expletive-laden gesture towards the camera, flipping it off twice before storming away from his screen. This raw display of emotion was a stark contrast to the typically composed nature of chess, igniting a wave of backlash online.
TakeTakeTake, the platform hosting the event, shared the clip with the caption, “we’ve all been there,” but soon faced criticism for the incident. Many labeled Ohanyan’s behavior as “utterly embarrassing.” In response to the uproar, the platform clarified that they did not interpret the gesture as directed at Sarin but rather as a reaction to the game itself. However, they acknowledged that such outbursts should not be normalized.
Amid the controversy, Sarin took to social media to address the incident, stating, “I want to clarify that I was not offended. Things happen in the heat of the moment — no big deal.” His composed response further highlighted his maturity as a player, even as the chess community dissected the drama.
Despite the incident, Sarin has continued to shine on the chessboard. The 21-year-old recently secured the Rapid title at the Tata Steel Chess India tournament, finishing ahead of five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand. He also made a notable appearance at the World Rapid Championship in Doha, where he finished 19th, showcasing his resilience and skill.
As the chess world reflects on this dramatic episode, Sarin’s journey in 2026 promises to be one filled with both challenges and triumphs. From catching a crucial premove to navigating the complexities of competitive chess, his year is unfolding in a way that keeps fans and critics alike on the edge of their seats.