🔗 Share this article

The former world champion has broken his silence after the death of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's demise as a heartbreaking event while condemning critics for mounting what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and unlawful targeted harassment" against him and his family.

Former Champion's Response

The 50-year-old former world champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for alleging Naroditsky of online cheating without evidence, offered sympathies but rejected any personal attacks.

"Regardless of our differences, I was the only person in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's apparent health concerns a day before his death, openly urged for him to receive help," Kramnik stated. "The subsequent attempts, right after his passing, to directly link this tragic event to my name … violate every limit of fundamental human decency."

Kramnik said his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's digital games had been ignored "despite a significant amount of evidence", and claimed he would submit documentation to "any relevant authority". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing legal actions over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family.

Investigation Details

The death of Naroditsky may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being examined as a potential self-harm case, based on a law enforcement document released Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities indicates Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation."

"On Sunday October 19th at around 7:11 PM, officers answered an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the report says. "When they reached the scene, an unresponsive subject was found and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional."

Chess World Response

Outrage regarding Kramnik's conduct has shaken the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura described his actions "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "terrible". Indian grandmaster Nihal Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "causing a death", saying his self-appointed pursuit against suspected cheaters was fruitless and "completely unacceptable".

Naroditsky's Legacy

A graduate of Stanford and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on streaming platforms. Referred to as Danya, he was celebrated for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a leading voice in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also one of the world's finest players under shorter time controls, placing ninth at last year's speed chess title event in New York.

Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the accusations but admitted the impact they had taken on his psychological well-being. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his last online broadcast.

Organizational Statements

The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's behavior. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky commented. The organization plans to honor Naroditsky with a tribute prize.

Fide president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be referred to the federation's disciplinary body "to be reviewed independently".

"Human life and dignity are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich stressed. "Our global chess family has always valued the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a duty to maintain the standards of equity and consideration."

Family's Hope

Naroditsky's family have said they hope he is remembered not for the hostility he endured but for "the happiness and motivation he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen called him "an asset to chess", while Hikaru Nakamura referred to him as "the best of us".

• Within the United States, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a support specialist.
• In the UK and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie.
• Across Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14.
• Global support contacts can be located through befrienders.org.