A viral handshake controversy at the Tata Steel Chess Tournament finds resolution as GM Nodirbek Yakubboev personally apologizes to R Vaishali, offering flowers and chocolate. The incident highlighted cultural and religious considerations.
BY PC Bureau
andmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev’s refusal to shake hands with Indian GM R Vaishali sparked a controversy during the Tata Steel Chess Tournament, but the Uzbek player later clarified that his actions were rooted in “religious reasons” and not intended as a sign of disrespect. A video of the incident quickly went viral, showing Vaishali, the sister of R Praggnanandhaa, extending her hand before their fourth-round match. Yakubboev, however, sat down without responding, leaving Vaishali in an awkward moment.
In a post on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), Yakubboev explained that he held deep respect for Vaishali and her younger brother Praggnanandhaa but clarified that, due to his religious beliefs, he does not engage in physical contact with women.
Uzbek GM Nodirbek Yakubboev met GM R. Vaishali and apologized to her. He did so by brining flowers and chocolate.
Full video: https://t.co/TEm7o4Bn3W pic.twitter.com/vnJV8NBdIj
— ChessBase India (@ChessbaseIndia) January 30, 2025
Nodirbek Yakubboev, a Grandmaster since 2019, is a rising star in the chess world, known for his tactical acumen and strong playing style. Representing Uzbekistan, he has become an important figure in international chess competitions and has helped raise the country’s profile in the sport.
After the incident, Yakubboev personally apologized to Vaishali, gifting her flowers and chocolate. A video of their exchange surfaced online, where he expressed his regret, stating, “I’m sorry for what happened; it was an awkward situation for both of us. I was in a rush that day, and it seems like there was some misunderstanding. I wish you and your brother the best of luck in your remaining games.”
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Vaishali responded kindly, assuring him, “I didn’t take it that way. It’s understandable, and you’ve already apologized, so it’s totally fine. No worries.”
Yakubboev also admitted that he should have communicated his reasons for not shaking hands to Vaishali and the tournament arbiter beforehand.
Nodirbek Yakubboev’s actions were a reflection of personal religious values, as in Islamic tradition, men and women who are not close relatives refrain from physical contact to maintain modesty. This practice, based on religious principles, guides his behavior both on and off the chessboard.
