American Grandmaster Hans Niemann addresses Paris Freestyle Chess Grand Slam exit, stirring debates in the chess world. His sudden withdrawal from the April 2025 Paris Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour stunned fans. Initially silent, Niemann fueled speculation but now clarifies his stance, rejecting anti-cheating rumors.
Niemann Rejects Anti-Cheating Speculation
Niemann withdrew from the Paris event 48 hours before its start, citing personal reasons. Norwegian broadcaster TV 2 claimed he feared new anti-cheating measures. Freestyle Chess CEO Jan Henric Buettner confirmed enhanced security but avoided linking it to Niemann’s exit. “We implemented the strictest anti-cheating measures ever,” Buettner said.
On May 5, 2025, Niemann refuted these claims on X, stating, “TV2’s speculation about ‘enhanced measures’ is completely false.” He insists his withdrawal was personal, not tied to Magnus Carlsen’s 2022 cheating allegations.
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Polygraph Test and Championship Goals
Niemann also addressed his canceled polygraph test after losing a March 2025 blitz match to Daniil Dubov, 9.5-8.5. Logistical issues delayed the lie-detector test, but he plans to complete it soon. “I’m doing this only because it was a match condition,” he said. Niemann remains focused on becoming World Chess Champion. At the Grenke Freestyle Chess Open, he debuted, finishing 33rd, while Carlsen dominated with a 9/9 score. In Paris, Nodirbek Abdusattorov replaced Niemann, and Carlsen defeated Hikaru Nakamura. India’s Arjun Erigaisi impressed, finishing fifth.
Niemann’s bold response and commitment to the polygraph test keep him in the spotlight. Chess enthusiasts eagerly await his next moves, both on and off the board.
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