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Uzbekistan GM Yakubboev declines handshake with Indian GM Vaishali, sparks controversy

Uzbekistan GM Yakubboev declines handshake with Indian GM Vaishali, sparks controversy

Uzbekistan GM Yakubboev declines handshake with Indian GM Vaishali, sparks controversy
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27 Jan 2025 9:42 PM IST

At the Tata Steel Chess Tournament, Uzbekistan Grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev found himself at the center of controversy after refusing to shake hands with Indian Grandmaster R. Vaishali before their fourth-round match.

In a video shared by The Khel India on X, Vaishali is seen extending her hand for a handshake, only for Yakubboev to sit down without acknowledging her gesture, leaving her momentarily awkward. The clip quickly went viral, drawing criticism from fans and chess enthusiasts alike.

Responding to the backlash, Yakubboev issued a clarification, apologizing and citing religious reasons for his actions. “Dear chess friends, I want to explain the situation that happened in the game with Vaishali. 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. I respect Vaishali and her brother as two of the strongest chess players in India. If I have offended her with my behavior, I apologize,” Yakubboev wrote in a post on X.

However, fans pointed out that Yakubboev had previously shaken hands with Indian player Divya Deshmukh in 2023. Addressing this, he admitted fault and reiterated his apology.

Despite the incident, Vaishali had the last word on the chessboard, defeating Yakubboev in the same game.

The episode has sparked debates within the chess community, with some supporting Yakubboev’s explanation and others questioning the consistency of his actions.

As the conversation continues online, Vaishali’s victory serves as a testament to her resilience amid the controversy.

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