🔗 Share this article Former world champion Kramnik Rejects Wrongdoing in Passing of American Grandmaster Naroditsky 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 campaign of 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, offered sympathies but denied any individual targeting. "Despite the tensions, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, observing through footage 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 explicitly connect this tragic event 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 "despite a significant amount of evidence", and stated he would provide material to "any relevant authority". He noted his lawyers were drafting legal actions over "unfounded claims" that have resulted in dangers 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, based on a police report released Thursday. A report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police department says Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Investigation into sudden death." "Last Sunday, October 19 at around 7:11 PM, officers answered an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "When they reached the scene, an unresponsive subject was found and later pronounced deceased by a medic." Community Reaction Anger over Kramnik's conduct has dominated the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while reigning champion Magnus Carlsen described it as "horrible". GM from India Nihal Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his self-appointed pursuit against suspected cheaters was fruitless and "totally inappropriate". Naroditsky's Legacy A graduate of Stanford and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on streaming platforms. Known 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 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 mental health. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky remarked in his final livestream. Organizational Statements The International Chess Federation (Fide) announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology simply is unacceptable," Fide CEO Sutovsky stated. The organization intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a memorial award. Federation president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be referred to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "to be reviewed independently". "Human life and dignity are core principles universally upheld," Dvorkovich stressed. "The chess community has always valued the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a responsibility to maintain the standards of fairness and respect." Loved Ones' Wish Naroditsky's relatives have said they hope he is recalled not because of the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he brought people every day". Magnus Carlsen called him "an asset to chess", while Nakamura described him as "among the finest". In the US, you can call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or message 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 crisis support service Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Global support contacts can be found at befrienders.org.