Controversy at Tata Steel Chess Tournament: GM Nodirbek Yakubboev’s Decision Not to Shake Hands with Indian GM R Vaishali

The Tata Steel Chess Tournament in New Delhi took an unexpected turn when Grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev’s decision not to shake hands with Indian GM R Vaishali sparked controversy. The Uzbek player later issued an apology, explaining that his actions were due to “religious reasons” and not meant to disrespect her.

In a video shared on social media, Vaishali is seen extending her hand before their fourth-round match, but Yakubboev sits down without reciprocating, leaving the Indian visibly uncomfortable. Yakubboev, who became a GM in 2019, lost the match and currently has three points after eight rounds in the Challengers’ section.

After the video went viral, Yakubboev took to ‘X’ to explain his actions, stating, “I do not touch other women for religious reasons. I respect Vaishali and her brother as the strongest chess players in India. If I have offended her with my behavior, I apologize.”

As a practicing Muslim, Yakubboev noted that he did not have an opportunity to inform Vaishali about his beliefs before their game. To prevent further misunderstandings, he informed Romania’s Irina Bulmaga about his beliefs ahead of their eighth-round match.

Vaishali, who did not extend her hand again after defeating Yakubboev, currently has four points after eight rounds. Another Uzbek player, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, is competing in the ‘Open’ section of the tournament.

The incident has sparked a debate on sportsmanship and respect in the chess community, with many questioning how such situations should be handled in the future.