🔗 Share this article Former world champion Kramnik Rejects Misconduct in Passing of American Grandmaster Naroditsky The former world champion has spoken out after the tragic passing of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's demise as a heartbreaking event 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 accusing Naroditsky of digital foul play lacking proof, offered sympathies but denied any personal attacks. "Regardless of our differences, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's apparent health concerns a day before his death, openly urged for him to get assistance," Kramnik stated. "The subsequent attempts, right after his passing, to explicitly connect this sorrowful incident to my name … violate every limit of fundamental human decency." Kramnik asserted his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's online play had been overlooked "even with substantial proof", and claimed he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing civil and criminal suits over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers 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, based on a law enforcement document released Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities says Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation." "On Sunday October 19th at around 7:11 PM, officers responded to an emergency medical request in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "When they reached the scene, an unconscious individual was located and later declared dead by a medical professional." Chess World Response Anger over Kramnik's behavior has shaken the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura called his behavior "disgusting", while reigning champion Carlsen labeled it "terrible". Indian grandmaster Nihal Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against alleged rule-breakers was fruitless and "completely unacceptable". Grandmaster's Impact 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 COVID-period surge. He was also among the globe's top competitors under rapid formats, placing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York. Naroditsky consistently denied the allegations but acknowledged the toll 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 final livestream. Official Responses The World Chess Federation said this week it was "investigating" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky commented. The organization plans to honor Naroditsky with a tribute prize. Fide president Arkady Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be referred to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration". "Life and human worth are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has long respected the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of fairness and respect." Loved Ones' Wish Naroditsky's relatives have expressed they hope he is recalled not because of the hostility he endured but for "the joy and inspiration he brought people every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "a resource to the chess community", while Nakamura described him as "the best of us". Within the United States, individuals may contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected]. Across Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.