Controversy erupted after Uzbekistani Grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev refused to shake hands with Indian GM R Vaishali before their fourth-round match at the Tata Steel Chess Tournament on Monday. He later apologised, clarifying that his actions were guided by 'religious reasons' and that he had no intention of disrespecting his opponent.

A renowned Uzbek chess Grandmaster, Nodirbek, refused to shake hands with India's Women's Grandmaster Vaishali.

Does religion influence sports? However, he was seen shaking hands with other female players earlier. pic.twitter.com/fGR61wvwUP

— Ayushh (@ayushh_it_is) January 27, 2025

In a video shared by ChessBase India, Vaishali is seen extending her hand at the start of the match. However, Yakubboev sat down without reciprocating the gesture, leaving Vaishali visibly uncomfortable. Yakubboev, 23, who achieved his Grandmaster title in 2019, went on to lose the match. He currently holds three points after eight rounds in the Challengers' section.