🔗 Share this article Vladimir Kramnik Denies Misconduct in Death of American Grandmaster Naroditsky The former world champion has spoken out after the death of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's demise as a tragedy while accusing critics for mounting what he termed an "deeply cynical and illegal targeted harassment" against him and his family. Former Champion's Response The fifty-year-old former world champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for accusing Naroditsky of digital foul play without evidence, expressed condolences but denied any personal attacks. "Regardless of our differences, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, openly urged for him to get assistance," Kramnik stated. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to explicitly connect this tragic event to my name … cross all boundaries 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 provide material to "any relevant authority". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing civil and criminal suits over "unfounded claims" that have resulted in dangers 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, according to a law enforcement document released Thursday. A report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police department 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 assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "When they reached the scene, an unresponsive subject 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 "appalling", while reigning champion Magnus Carlsen labeled it "horrible". GM from India Nihal Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "taking a life", saying his self-appointed pursuit against suspected cheaters was fruitless and "completely unacceptable". Naroditsky's Legacy A Stanford-educated prodigy and former world youth champion, 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 leading voice in chess's pandemic-era boom. He was also one of the world's finest players under shorter time controls, finishing 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. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I begin performing strongly, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his final livestream. Organizational Statements The International Chess Federation (Fide) announced recently it was "looking into" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply is unacceptable," Fide chief executive Sutovsky stated. The organization intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize. Fide president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be referred to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration". "Life and human worth are core principles universally upheld," Dvorkovich stressed. "The chess community has long respected the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of fairness and respect." Family's Hope Naroditsky's relatives have expressed they hope he is remembered not for the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he brought people every day". Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", 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 message HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist. In the UK and Ireland, The Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected]. Across Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Global support contacts can be found at befrienders.org.