Two years ago, the chess world was rocked by a major scandal involving American grandmaster Hans Niemann and world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen. Niemann’s victory over Carlsen in the Sinquefield Cup sparked accusations of cheating, which Niemann denied. Despite the lack of evidence, the controversy has continued to follow Niemann.
In the wake of the scandal, Niemann has launched a series of one-on-one matches against fellow grandmasters, titled “Hans Niemann Against The World.” Indian GM Vidit Gujrathi, who faced Niemann in one of these matches, believes that Niemann’s actions are beneficial for chess.
“I think what Hans is doing is good for chess,” Gujrathi said. “Every sport has special characters who bring money and attention to the game and evoke strong emotions in people.”
Niemann has expressed a desire for an apology from Carlsen, but has also stated that his “vengeance will be victory on the board.” He is scheduled to face Carlsen in the semifinals of the Speed Chess Championship in Paris on September 6.
Former world No. 2 Levon Aronian, who played in the controversial 2022 Sinquefield Cup, believes that Niemann is a talented player but has reservations about his actions.
“I think Hans is a talented player who can reach the heights in chess,” Aronian said. “But I can’t say I support him. In a way, he’s using this whole story perhaps to his advantage.”
The controversy has also sparked a conversation about cheating in chess. Aronian and Gujrathi agree that more stringent anti-cheating measures are needed.
“Anti-cheating measures have to be more stringent,” Gujrathi said. “When you allow spectators, there has to be a delay in broadcast. They shouldn’t be able to see the live position when they come in.”
Despite the challenges he faces, Niemann remains determined to become a top player.
“He has everyone rooting against him,” Gujrathi said. “But that doesn’t stop him. If anything, it fuels him.”
