🔗 Share this article Vladimir Kramnik Denies Misconduct in Passing of American Grandmaster Naroditsky The former world champion has broken his silence after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while condemning critics for launching what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal targeted harassment" against him and his loved ones. Former Champion's Response The fifty-year-old ex-champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for accusing Naroditsky of online cheating lacking proof, expressed condolences but rejected any personal attacks. "Regardless of our differences, I was the only person in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, publicly called for him to get assistance," Kramnik stated. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident to my name … cross all boundaries of fundamental human decency." Kramnik asserted his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's online play had been ignored "despite a significant amount of evidence", and stated he would provide material to "any relevant authority". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing civil and criminal suits over "unfounded claims" that have led to threats against him and his family. Investigation Details The demise of the grandmaster may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being investigated as a possible suicide, according to a police report released Thursday. A report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police department says Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Investigation into sudden death." "On Sunday October 19th at around 7:11 PM, officers answered an emergency medical request in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the report says. "When they reached the scene, an unresponsive subject was located and later declared dead by a medical professional." Community Reaction Anger over Kramnik's behavior has dominated the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura described his actions "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "horrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "taking a life", saying his self-appointed pursuit against suspected cheaters was fruitless and "totally inappropriate". Grandmaster's Impact A Stanford-educated prodigy and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on streaming platforms. Known as Danya, he was praised for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a leading voice in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also among the globe's top competitors under rapid formats, finishing 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. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I begin performing strongly, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his last online broadcast. Organizational Statements The International Chess Federation (Fide) said this week it was "investigating" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide CEO Sutovsky stated. The organization intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize. Fide president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be referred to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration". "Life and human worth are core principles shared by all of us," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has long respected the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a responsibility to maintain the standards of equity and consideration." Family's Hope Naroditsky's family have expressed they hope he is recalled not because of the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he provided others every day". Carlsen described 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, communicate via 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. Throughout Britain and Ireland, Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected]. Across Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Global support contacts can be found at befrienders.org.