Uzbek GM Explains Handshake Refusal with India's Vaishali
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, Uzbekistan's Grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev clarified his refusal to shake hands with Indian GM R Vaishali during the Tata Steel Chess Tournament, citing religious beliefs. The incident has sparked discussions on cultural practices and respect in sports.
Key Takeaways
- Yakubboev cited religious reasons for not shaking hands.
- He respects Indian chess players, especially Vaishali.
- The player informed his opponents of his beliefs beforehand.
- Avoiding handshakes is part of his personal practice.
- The incident highlights cultural differences in sportsmanship.
New Delhi, Jan 27 (NationPress) Uzbekistan's Grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev has provided clarity regarding his decision to abstain from shaking hands with Indian GM R Vaishali during the Tata Steel Chess Tournament, attributing it to religious reasons. A video that has gained traction on social media displays Vaishali reaching out for a handshake before their fourth-round match, but Yakubboev instead takes his seat without responding, which leaves the Indian player visibly uneasy.
Following the video's circulation, Yakubboev took to the platform 'X' to share, "I want to explain the situation that occurred during the game with Vaishali. With utmost respect for women and Indian chess players, I feel it is important to clarify that I do not engage in physical contact with women for religious reasons."
"I hold Vaishali and her brother in high regard as formidable chess players in India. If my actions have caused any offense, I sincerely apologize.
"I would like to add a few points: 1) Chess is not haram. 2) My previous actions (referring to the match against Divya in 2023 and similar incidents) were not in line with my principles. 3) I act in accordance with my beliefs and do not impose my views on others regarding handshakes or attire choices. It is entirely their personal decision," he elaborated.
To avoid a repeat of the previous awkwardness in the eighth-round match against Romania's Irina Bulmaga, Yakubboev mentioned that he communicated his religious beliefs to her in advance.
"Today, I informed Irina Bulmaga about my stance. She was understanding. However, upon arriving at the playing hall, the arbiters insisted that I should at least perform a Namaste as a respectful gesture. Unfortunately, I was unable to communicate my preferences to Divya and Vaishali prior to the games, leading to an awkward scenario," he added.
The 23-year-old was defeated by Vaishali, who also refrained from offering a handshake post-victory. Despite this, Yakubboev secured a win against Bulmaga in the eighth round, accumulating four points after eight rounds in the Challengers' section.
Vaishali currently stands sixth with 4.5 points after a draw with Dutch player Arthur Pijpers in the eighth round.
