Chess controversy: Uzbek player refuses handshake with Indian opponent—what happened?
Yasmine Green
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
Uzbek chess player Nodirbek Yakubboev has sparked a major controversy at the Wijk aan Zee tournament by refusing to shake hands with Indian chess player Rameshbabu Vaishali, according to Sportowe Fakty.
The incident raised questions about Yakubboev’s perceived disrespect toward his opponent, prompting the player to clarify his actions on social media.
Yakubboev explained that his decision stemmed from his religious beliefs, which he said prohibit him from physical contact with women. He acknowledged, however, that he had previously shaken hands with female players, but now feels differently about the matter.
He emphasized that this change in perspective is personal and not something he expects others to adopt. Yakubboev also expressed respect for Vaishali and apologized if his actions had offended her, stating that it was never his intention to insult her.
Interestingly, Yakubboev lost the match to Vaishali, who currently sits 7th in the tournament standings, half a point ahead of Yakubboev, who is in 10th place.
