The former world champion has spoken out after the death of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's loss as a tragedy while condemning critics for mounting what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones.
Kramnik's Statement
The 50-year-old former world champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for alleging Naroditsky of online cheating lacking proof, expressed condolences but rejected any individual targeting.
"Regardless of our differences, I was the only person in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's apparent health concerns a day before his death, publicly called for him to receive help," Kramnik stated. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident to my name … violate every limit of basic human morality."
Kramnik said his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's online play had been overlooked "even with substantial proof", and claimed he would submit documentation to "any relevant authority". He noted his lawyers were drafting legal actions over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family.
Investigation Details
The death of Naroditsky may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being investigated as a possible suicide, according to a law enforcement document issued last Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities indicates Naroditsky was discovered deceased Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Investigation into sudden death."
"On Sunday October 19th at approximately 07:11pm, officers answered an emergency medical request in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was found and later declared dead by a medic."
Chess World Response
Anger over Kramnik's conduct has dominated the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura described his actions "appalling", while reigning champion Magnus Carlsen described it as "terrible". Indian grandmaster Nihal Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, blamed Kramnik for "taking a life", saying his vigilante campaign against suspected cheaters was fruitless and "completely unacceptable".
Naroditsky's Legacy
A Stanford-educated prodigy and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on Twitch and YouTube. Referred to 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 rapid formats, finishing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York.
Naroditsky consistently denied 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 assume the worst," Naroditsky said in his final livestream.
Official Responses
The International Chess Federation (Fide) said this week it was "looking into" Kramnik's actions. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply can't be accepted," Fide CEO Sutovsky commented. The federation intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize.
Fide president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's official remarks 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 fundamental values shared by all of us," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has long respected 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 family have said they wish he is recalled not because of the confrontation he faced but for "the joy and inspiration he brought people every day". Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Hikaru Nakamura referred to him as "among the finest".
- In the US, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, communicate via 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a support specialist.
- In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected].
- Across Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14.
- Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.
