Goa Resort Owner Fires Back at Chess World Cup Critic Ian Nepomniachtchi: 'Chess Players Should Be Rational, Not Emotional'

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The Chess World Cup 2025 in Goa has been marred by controversy following Russian GM Ian Nepomniachtchi's early exit in the second round. Nepomniachtchi, who received a bye into the second round, lost to Indian player Diptayan Ghosh and was seen leaving the playing hall immediately. He even checked out of his hotel just an hour after the match. Nepomniachtchi criticized the hotel conditions, calling them sub-standard, with poor rooms, food, and service. He also attributed his early exit to the humidity, mosquitoes, and jet lag. However, his comments have sparked a fierce response from the owner of Resort Rio, Anup Shah. In an interview with ChessBase India, Shah expressed his surprise at Nepomniachtchi's criticism, saying that chess players are expected to be rational and logical thinkers. 'It's a bit like expecting a Siberian to complain about the cold,' Shah said, pointing out that the humidity and mosquitoes are a normal part of the tropical climate. Shah also disputed Nepomniachtchi's claims about the food, saying that the hotel offers a standard buffet that caters to everyone. He even cited research to prove that pineapples are a better option than meat for mental performance. Shah acknowledged that the criticism does affect the hotel's reputation but emphasized that they are doing their best to accommodate all players. The exchange between Nepomniachtchi and Shah highlights the challenges faced by organizers in hosting international events like the Chess World Cup, where different cultures and dietary requirements need to be catered to. The incident has sparked a debate about the expectations of players and the responsibilities of organizers in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.