Viral Video: Uzbek Chess Player Apologizes to Vaishali After Handshake Controversy

Uzbekistan’s Grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev has apologized to Indian Grandmaster R. Vaishali after refusing to shake hands with her during the Tata Steel Chess Tournament. On Thursday, Yakubboev presented flowers and chocolates to Vaishali in the presence of her mother and brother, R. Praggnanandhaa, as a gesture of apology.

A video of the incident, where Yakubboev declined Vaishali’s handshake before their fourth-round match, went viral on social media. In professional chess tournaments, it is customary for players to shake hands before the game. Vaishali extended her hand, but Yakubboev ignored the gesture and focused on arranging his pieces instead. Vaishali then withdrew her hand. The video sparked widespread criticism of the Uzbek player’s behavior.

Addressing the controversy, Yakubboev explained that he admires Indian chess players and that his action was unintentional. He stated that he was in a hurry that day and did not mean to disrespect Vaishali. He expressed regret, saying he was misunderstood and sincerely apologized for his behavior. He also extended his best wishes to Vaishali and her brother Praggnanandhaa. ChessBase India shared a video of Yakubboev thanking them for understanding and wishing them "all the best."

Vaishali responded to the apology, stating that she accepted it and understood why Yakubboev had acted that way during the match.