Giri Receives $20,000 from Endgame AI, Distances from 'Payroll' Status

Dutch chess Grandmaster Anish Giri has publicly addressed his financial relationship with the online chess platform Endgame AI, clarifying that he is not on its "payroll" despite receiving two payments of $10,000. The prominent player took to social media to state, "I am not on 'Endgame AI payroll', if we don't count the hard earned 2x $10.000." His statement, made on August 17, 2025, comes amidst ongoing discussions and controversies within the professional chess circuit.

Endgame AI, an emerging online platform, has recently gained attention through its association with high-profile matches and players. Notably, American Grandmaster Hans Niemann has been actively promoting the platform, including after his 18-game blitz rematch against Giri on June 18, 2025. Giri won this match with a decisive 9.5-3.5 score, suggesting the $20,000 payments could be related to prize money or appearance fees from such events.

Giri's emphasis on the "hard earned" nature of the funds implies that the payments are compensation for his direct participation and performance in chess events, rather than a regular salary or endorsement deal. This distinction highlights the financial arrangements prevalent in the top echelons of competitive chess, where players often receive earnings based on tournament results or specific match agreements.

The Grandmaster also used his tweet to offer broader commentary on the sport's landscape, remarking, "Keeping chess mafia in check is not my job, it's my hobby. Not everything is about money, believe it or not." This alludes to the various "chess drama" and internal politics that frequently surface, such as recent disputes over tournament appeals and organizational decisions. Giri, known for his candid and often humorous remarks, positions himself as an independent voice observing these developments.

His comments resonate with ongoing debates about transparency, financial incentives, and power dynamics within the professional chess world. By publicly clarifying his financial ties and expressing his views on the sport's integrity, Giri contributes to the broader conversation among players and fans regarding the future direction of competitive chess.