🔗 Share this article Vladimir Kramnik Denies Misconduct in Passing of US Chess Star Daniel Naroditsky The former world champion has spoken out after the death of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while accusing critics for mounting what he termed an "deeply cynical and unlawful campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones. Former Champion's Response The fifty-year-old ex-champion, who has faced broad criticism for accusing Naroditsky of digital foul play lacking proof, expressed condolences but denied any personal attacks. "Despite the tensions, I was the only person in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, openly urged for him to get assistance," Kramnik stated. "The subsequent attempts, right after his passing, to directly link this tragic event to my name … cross all boundaries of fundamental human decency." Kramnik said his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's digital games had been ignored "despite a significant amount of evidence", and stated he would submit documentation to "any relevant authority". He noted his lawyers were drafting legal actions over "false accusations" that have led to threats against him and his family. Police Findings The demise of the grandmaster may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being examined as a potential self-harm case, based on a police report released Thursday. A report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police department says Naroditsky was discovered deceased Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation." "On Sunday October 19th at approximately 07:11pm, officers answered an assist medic call in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the report says. "When they reached the scene, an unconscious individual was found and later declared dead by a medic." Community Reaction Outrage regarding Kramnik's conduct has shaken the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura called his behavior "disgusting", while reigning champion Carlsen labeled it "horrible". Indian grandmaster Nihal 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". Grandmaster's Impact A graduate of Stanford and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on Twitch and YouTube. 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 among the globe's top competitors under rapid formats, finishing ninth at last year's blitz world championship 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 begin performing strongly, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his final livestream. Official Responses The International Chess Federation (Fide) announced recently it was "looking into" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide CEO Emil Sutovsky stated. The federation intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize. Federation president Arkady Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be referred to the federation's disciplinary body "to be reviewed independently". "Life and human worth are fundamental values shared by all of us," Dvorkovich stressed. "The chess community has long respected the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a duty to maintain the standards of equity and consideration." Loved Ones' Wish Naroditsky's relatives have expressed they hope he is recalled not because of the confrontation he faced but for "the joy and inspiration he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "a resource to the chess community", while Hikaru Nakamura described him as "the best of us". In the US, individuals may contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a support specialist. Throughout Britain and Ireland, Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected]. Across Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.