American GM Wesley So commented on the defeat of Hans Moke Niemann and Ian Nepomniachtchi in the first round of the UzChess Cup 2026. Wesley says the GMs are tired, noting their exhibition match at the end of May.

Wesley So

Wesley So

American GM

“Both the Fighters unfortunately too tired, after their grueling, back and forth match…”

Hans Niemann and Ian Nepomniachtchi played an exhibition match in Belgrade at the end of May. The GMs played to a score of 4-4, Ian refused to play a tiebreak, and the match ended in a draw. Nepo criticized the match, and Niemann made a public explanation of the situation.

The UzChess Cup 2026 takes place from June 7 to 15, at the Crowne Plaza, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Hans and Ian share last place after losing their first games.

Credit: ChessBase India X