WICF with a statement on the assault of a videographer by GM Christopher Yoo

After losing his game of round 5 from the US Chess Championship, GM Christopher Yoo destroyed his scoresheet, stormed out of the playing hall, “and struck a videographer from behind”. The Saint Louis chess club and the organizers of the US Championship did not approve of the reaction of Christopher Yoo and expelled him from the US Championship. The Women In Chess Foundation (WICF) released a statement on the Assault of a Videographer by GM Christopher Yoo. See the full text below.

Timeline of the Christopher Yoo case

16.10.2024 Christopher Yoo – Fabiano Caruana round 5 game
16.10.2024 Christopher Yoo is expelled from the US Championship and banned from St Louis Chess Club
17.10.2024 Chris Bird, “The punch by Christopher Yoo was completely unprovoked, from behind and in no way accidental”
17.10.2024 USCF suspends Christopher Yoo
17.10.2024 Christopher Yoo is charged with fourth-degree assault by the St. Louis police

WICF statement on the assault of a videographer by GM Christopher Yoo

The Women In Chess Foundation is taken aback by the recent assault on a videographer by GM Christopher Yoo. Violence and aggression have no place in the chess community and it is deeply concerning to witness such behavior from a prominent player in our sport.

We stand by the videographer who, with immense bravery, has stepped forward and pressed charges in the face of this unacceptable assault. It is never easy to take such a stand. Their courage sets a powerful example for the entire chess community, showing that no one should tolerate abuse or intimidation, regardless of the perpetrator’s status.

Our foundation also applauds the actions of the St. Louis Chess Club, the Chief Arbiter, and others who have supported the videographer and have not tolerated this behavior. As an organization that tolerates inclusivity, safety and respect in chess, we call upon all members of the chess world to reflect on the importance of integrity, accountability, and the respectful treatment of others.

(HT Aurora de Mar Aun)