India, Dec. 1 -- The recently concluded Chess World Cup 2025 in Goa saw a huge controversy after Ian Nepomniachtchi's second-round exit. The Russian GM lost to Diptayan Ghosh after getting a bye into the second round. But he was left fuming after his defeat and left the playing hall immediately. He was also seen checking out of his hotel within an hour after his elimination.

After his exit, Nepomniachtchi slammed the hotel conditions for players, criticising the organisers. He labelled the venue (Resort Rio) as sub-standard, with poor rooms, food and service. He also complained that these conditions, along with the humidity, mosquitoes and jet lag, led to his early exit.

Reacting to Nepomniachtchi, Resort Rio owner Anup Shah slammed the...