🔗 Share this article Former world champion Kramnik Rejects Misconduct in Passing of US Chess Star Naroditsky The former world champion has spoken out after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's loss as a tragedy while condemning critics for mounting what he termed an "deeply cynical and illegal targeted harassment" against him and his family. Former Champion's Response The 50-year-old ex-champion, who has faced broad criticism for alleging Naroditsky of online cheating without evidence, expressed condolences but rejected any individual targeting. "Despite the tensions, I was the sole individual 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 declared. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to explicitly connect this tragic event to my name … violate every limit of fundamental human decency." Kramnik asserted his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's digital games had been ignored "even with substantial proof", and claimed he would provide material to "any relevant authority". He mentioned his lawyers were drafting legal actions over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family. Police Findings The demise of the grandmaster 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 discovered deceased Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Investigation into sudden death." "On Sunday October 19th at approximately 07:11pm, officers responded to an emergency medical request in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was located and later declared dead by a medical professional." Chess World Response Anger over Kramnik's conduct has shaken the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura described his actions "disgusting", while five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen described it as "terrible". GM from India Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his final online match, blamed Kramnik for "taking a life", saying his vigilante campaign against alleged rule-breakers was fruitless and "completely unacceptable". Naroditsky's Legacy A Stanford-educated prodigy and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on Twitch and YouTube. Known as Danya, he was celebrated for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a leading voice in chess's pandemic-era boom. 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 accusations but acknowledged the toll they had taken on his mental health. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people assume the worst," Naroditsky remarked 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 is unacceptable," Fide chief executive Sutovsky commented. The organization intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a memorial award. Fide president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be submitted to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "to be reviewed independently". "Human life and dignity are core principles shared by all of us," Dvorkovich emphasized. "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." Family's Hope Naroditsky's relatives have expressed they wish he is remembered not for the confrontation he faced but for "the joy and inspiration he brought people every day". Carlsen described him "a resource to the chess community", while Nakamura referred to him as "the best of us". 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, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected]. Across Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Global support contacts can be located through befrienders.org.