Giri Fires Back at Chess World Cup Critics: 'Bedbugs' Claim is 'Ridiculous' | Chess World Cup 2025

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{ "title": "Giri Fires Back at Chess World Cup Critics: 'Bedbugs' Claim is 'Ridiculous' | Chess World Cup 2025", "article": "The ongoing Chess World Cup 2025 in Goa has been marred by controversy, with Russian GM Ian Nepomniachtchi criticizing the tournament organizers for the playing and living conditions. Nepomniachtchi's comments were echoed by world no. 4 Fabiano Caruana and Christian Chirila, who claimed that players had complained about bedbugs in the hotel. However, not everyone shares their concerns. World no. 3 Anish Giri, who crashed out of the tournament in Round 3, has come out swinging against the critics. Speaking to a live stream on ChessBase India and Chess.com India, Giri described the complaints as 'funny' and 'ridiculous'. Giri acknowledged that playing in India can be challenging for Western players, citing jet lag and different food as potential issues. However, he pointed out that Indian players face similar challenges when competing in European tournaments. Responding directly to Caruana and Chirila's claim, Giri said that it's 'funny' to hear about bedbugs from people who aren't even present at the tournament. He suggested that the claim may have originated from a single person who saw a mosquito and mistook it for a bedbug. Giri also took issue with other exaggerated claims, including the idea that players had to venture outside in the heat to use the toilet. In reality, the toilet is just a few meters away from the playing hall. While Giri's comments may have sparked some debate, they also highlight the challenges faced by players at the tournament. As the competition continues, it's clear that the Chess World Cup 2025 is more than just a battle of wits – it's also a test of endurance for the players."