🔗 Share this article Vladimir Kramnik Denies Misconduct in Death 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 tragedy while condemning critics for mounting what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal campaign of harassment" against him and his family. Former Champion's Response The fifty-year-old ex-champion, who has faced broad criticism for accusing Naroditsky of online cheating lacking proof, offered sympathies but rejected any individual targeting. "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, immediately following his passing, to explicitly connect this tragic event to my name … cross all boundaries of fundamental human decency." Kramnik said his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's online play had been ignored "even with substantial proof", and claimed he would submit documentation to "any relevant authority". He noted his lawyers were preparing legal actions over "unfounded claims" that have led to threats against him and his family. Police Findings The death of Naroditsky may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being investigated as a possible suicide, according to a police report issued last Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities says Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation." "On Sunday October 19th at around 7:11 PM, officers answered an emergency medical request in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the report says. "When they reached the scene, an unconscious individual was found and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional." Community Reaction Outrage regarding Kramnik's conduct has shaken the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura called his behavior "disgusting", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "horrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", 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 gathered more than 800k fans 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 one of the world's finest players under shorter time controls, 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 psychological well-being. "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 "looking into" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Sutovsky stated. The organization plans to honor Naroditsky with a memorial award. Fide president Arkady Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be submitted to the federation's disciplinary body "to be reviewed independently". "Life and human worth are core principles universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has always valued the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a responsibility to maintain the standards of equity and consideration." Family's Hope Naroditsky's relatives have said they hope he is recalled not because of the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Nakamura referred to him as "among the finest". Within the United States, individuals may contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, communicate via 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist. Throughout Britain and Ireland, Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected]. In Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.