🔗 Share this article Former world champion Kramnik Denies Wrongdoing 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 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 without evidence, expressed condolences but rejected any personal attacks. "Despite the tensions, I was the only person 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 declared. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to explicitly connect this sorrowful incident to my name … cross all boundaries of basic human morality." Kramnik asserted his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's digital games had been ignored "despite a significant amount of evidence", and stated he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were drafting legal actions over "unfounded claims" 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 examined as a potential self-harm case, according to a law enforcement document issued last Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities indicates 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 responded to an emergency medical request in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was located and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional." Community Reaction Outrage regarding Kramnik's conduct has shaken the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen described it as "horrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, 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 former world youth champion, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on streaming platforms. Known as Danya, he was celebrated for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a prominent figure in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also among the globe's top competitors under shorter time controls, placing ninth at last year's speed chess title event in New York. Naroditsky consistently denied the allegations 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 suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his final livestream. Organizational Statements The World Chess Federation said this week it was "looking into" Kramnik's actions. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply is unacceptable," Fide CEO Emil Sutovsky stated. The federation intends to commemorate 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 submitted to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration". "Human life and dignity are fundamental values shared by all of us," Dvorkovich stressed. "The chess community has always valued the accomplishments 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 hope he is recalled not because of the hostility he endured but for "the happiness and motivation he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen called him "an asset to chess", while Nakamura referred to him as "among the finest". In the US, individuals may contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, communicate via 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor. In the UK and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected]. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.