Nodirbek Yakubbayev apologizes to Indian opponent after chess tournament incident (video)

Uzbek chess player Nodirbek Yakubbayev has apologized to Indian chess player Rameshbabu Vaishali following an incident at the "Tata Steel Chess - 2025" tournament, according to the press service of the "UzChess" project.  

Yakubbayev met with Vaishali, had a cordial conversation, and presented flowers and sweets as a gesture of goodwill to resolve the misunderstanding.  

In an interview with "ChessBase India", Yakubbayev expressed his regret over the situation.  

"I want not only us chess players, but also the people of Uzbekistan and India to have friendly relations. I apologize for what happened. This was an unpleasant situation for both of us. I respect you, your brother, and all Indian chess players," Yakubbayev told Vaishali.  

The controversy arose after Yakubbayev did not shake Vaishali's hand before their match, a customary gesture in chess. The incident sparked debate, leading to his subsequent apology.