Tata Steel Chess: Controversy erupts as GM Nodirbek Yakubboev refuses handshake with Vaishali R

The Tata Steel Chess tournament was struck by controversy after Uzbekistani Grandmaster (GM) Nodirbek Yakubboev refused to shake hands with Indian GM Vaishali R. before their match.

The handshake, a long-standing tradition in chess to acknowledge an opponent, was omitted, leading to confusion and online debate.

Vaishali, however, remained unfazed and went on to win the game.

The incident gained traction after Yakubboev addressed the situation on X (formerly Twitter), explaining his stance.

Yakubboev’s Statement on X

Yakubboev clarified that his refusal to shake hands stemmed from his religious beliefs, stating:

 “With all due respect to women and Indian chess players, I want to inform everyone that I do not touch other women for religious reasons.”

He added that he holds great respect for Vaishali and her brother, Indian GM Praggnanandhaa, and apologized if his actions caused offense.

Yakubboev further explained that he does not impose his beliefs on others and has previously reconsidered his approach to similar situations.

He revealed that he had informed fellow competitor Irina Bulmaga and the tournament arbiters beforehand about his practice of not shaking hands.

However, he admitted that the lack of prior communication with Vaishali and Divya Deshmukh in earlier cases led to awkward moments.

The chess community has been divided over the incident, with some supporting Yakubboev’s right to uphold his religious practices and others emphasizing the importance of traditions and sportsmanship in chess.

This situation has reignited conversations around cultural and religious sensitivity in international sports.