🔗 Share this article Vladimir Kramnik Rejects Misconduct in Death of American Grandmaster Naroditsky The former world champion has spoken out after the death of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's demise as a tragedy while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "deeply cynical and illegal 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 digital foul play lacking proof, expressed condolences but rejected any personal attacks. "Regardless of our differences, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, openly urged for him to receive help," Kramnik declared. "The ensuing efforts, immediately following his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident to my name … violate every limit of basic human morality." Kramnik asserted his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's online play had been overlooked "even with substantial proof", and claimed he would provide material to "any relevant authority". He noted his lawyers were preparing legal actions over "unfounded claims" that have led to threats against him and his family. Investigation Details The death of Naroditsky may have been the result of a drug overdose and is being investigated as a possible suicide, according to a law enforcement document released Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities says Naroditsky was discovered deceased Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation." "Last Sunday, October 19 at approximately 07:11pm, officers responded to an emergency medical request in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was found and later pronounced deceased by a medic." Community Reaction Outrage regarding Kramnik's behavior has dominated the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura described his actions "disgusting", while reigning champion Carlsen labeled it "terrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his final online match, blamed Kramnik for "taking a life", 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 Twitch and YouTube. Referred to as Danya, he was celebrated for his humor, clarity and humility, becoming a leading voice in chess's pandemic-era boom. He was also one of the world's finest players under rapid formats, placing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York. Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the accusations but admitted the impact they had taken on his psychological well-being. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I begin performing strongly, people assume the worst," Naroditsky remarked in his last online broadcast. Organizational Statements The World Chess Federation said this week it was "looking into" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply is unacceptable," Fide CEO Sutovsky stated. The organization plans to honor Naroditsky with a tribute prize. Federation president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be submitted to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration". "Life and human worth are fundamental values shared by all of us," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has always valued the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a duty to uphold the principles of fairness and respect." Family's Hope Naroditsky's relatives have said they hope he is remembered not for the hostility he endured but for "the joy and inspiration he brought people every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Nakamura described him as "among the finest". Within the United States, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. Throughout Britain and Ireland, The Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected]. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.