The former world champion has broken his silence after the death of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones.
Kramnik's Statement
The fifty-year-old former world champion, who has faced broad criticism for accusing Naroditsky of digital foul play without evidence, offered sympathies but rejected any personal attacks.
"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, openly urged for him to receive help," Kramnik stated. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to explicitly connect this sorrowful incident to my name … cross all boundaries of fundamental human decency."
Kramnik asserted his earlier calls for a review 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 preparing civil and criminal suits over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family.
Investigation Details
The demise of the grandmaster 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."
"Last Sunday, October 19 at approximately 07:11pm, officers responded to an emergency medical request in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unresponsive subject was found and later declared dead by a medic."
Chess World Response
Outrage regarding Kramnik's behavior has shaken the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen labeled it "terrible". GM from India Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against suspected cheaters was fruitless and "totally inappropriate".
Grandmaster's Impact
A Stanford-educated prodigy and former world youth champion, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on Twitch and YouTube. 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 rapid formats, placing ninth at last year's speed chess title event in New York.
Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the accusations but acknowledged the toll 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 said in his last online broadcast.
Organizational Statements
The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky stated. The federation intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize.
Fide president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be submitted to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration".
"Life and human worth are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has always valued the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of fairness and respect."
Loved Ones' Wish
Naroditsky's relatives have said they hope he is recalled not because of the confrontation he faced but for "the joy and inspiration he brought people every day". Magnus Carlsen called him "a resource to the chess community", while Nakamura described him as "the best of us".
- In the US, you can call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor.
- In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected].
- In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14.
- Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.
