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Hans Niemann says he never received an apology over 2022 cheating claims, revisits feud with Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura in new Netflix documentary Untold Chess Mates
American Chess Grandmaster Hans Niemann (Instagram/hans_niemann)
Hans Niemann has opened up on the controversy that rocked the chess world in 2022, stating that he has never received an apology following the cheating allegations made against him.
The issue has been revisited in the Netflix documentary Untold: Chess Mates, released globally on April 7.
What Is The Controversy?
The controversy began at the Sinquefield Cup in St. Louis, where Niemannthen 19, defeated world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in a shock result. Niemann had joined the tournament as a last-minute replacement for Richard Rapport. Shortly after his loss, Carlsen withdrew from the event and later hinted that Niemann might have cheated, igniting one of the biggest scandals in modern chess.
Revisiting the matter, Niemann shared his feelings publicly on social media.
“I never received an apology. Let that sink in,” Niemann posted on X.
“I don’t need one, but it shows the character of my detractors. As I’ve always said, my greatest vindication will be on the chess board. Be patient and the world will see,” he added.
I don’t need one, but it shows the character of my detractors. As I’ve always said, my greatest vindication will be on the chess board. Be patient and the world will see.— Hans Niemann (@HansMokeNiemann) April 7, 2026
History Of Niemann Vs Carlsen & Hikaru
The situation escalated when Niemann filed a $100 million lawsuit against Carlsen, fellow grandmaster Hikaru Nakamuraand Chess.com, accusing them of damaging his reputation. The case was eventually dismissed, and both sides later reached a settlement.
Niemann has previously admitted to cheating in online games when he was younger but has consistently denied any wrongdoing in over-the-board play, including at the Sinquefield Cup. He reiterates this stance in the documentary.
Despite the legal resolution, tensions remain between Niemann and top players such as Carlsen and Nakamura.
Hans Niemann had even recently hit out at Hikaru Nakamura for his criticism of FIDE for its strict anti-cheating measures at the ongoing Candidates.
April 08, 2026, 08:44 IST
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