Watch: Uzbekistan GM Yakubboev declines handshake with Indian GM Vaishali, stirs controversy

In a video shared by The Khel India on X, Vaishali can be seen extending her hand for a handshake ahead of the fourth-round of the game, following which Yakubboev sat down without acknowledging the former's gesture.

Uzbekistan Grand Master Nordibek Yakubboev has stirred a controversy after he refused to shake hands with his opponent, Indian Grand Master R Vaishali at the Tata Steel Chess Tournament.

In a video shared by The Khel India on X, Vaishali can be seen extending her hand for a handshake ahead of the fourth-round of the game, following which Yakubboev sat down without acknowledging the former’s gesture.

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Leaving his opponent Vaishali visibly awkward, Yakubboev drew flak online as the video of the incident went viral on social media.

Responding on the controversy, Yakubboev gave a clarification and apologised saying that he did not mean any disrespect to his opponent but did not acknowledge the handshake due to ‘religious reasons.’

In his explanation, the Ukranian Grand Master said “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 (Sic).”

“I respect Vaishali and her brother as the strongest chess players in India. If I have offended her with my behavior, I apologise.” he wrote in his long clarification post on X.

However, fans pointed out that he shook hands with Divya Deshmukh in 2023, to which he responded saying that he was at fault.

🇺🇿 Nodirbek Yakubboev refused to shake hands with Vaishali at Tata Steel Chess due to religious reasons.

He had earlier shaken hands with Indian Player like Divya Deshmukh during 2023 🤷

Anyways, Vaishali has defeated Nodirbek in the same game! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/uz2ENg8etT

— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) January 27, 2025