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The former world champion has spoken out after the death of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "deeply cynical and unlawful targeted 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 digital foul play lacking proof, expressed condolences but denied any individual targeting.

"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, publicly called for him to get assistance," Kramnik declared. "The subsequent attempts, immediately following his passing, to explicitly connect this tragic event to my name … cross all boundaries of basic human morality."

Kramnik said his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's digital games had been overlooked "despite a significant amount of evidence", and stated he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He noted his lawyers were preparing civil and criminal suits over "unfounded claims" 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, based on a police report released Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities indicates Naroditsky was found dead 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 report says. "When they reached the scene, an unconscious individual was located and later declared dead by a medical professional."

Chess World Response

Outrage regarding Kramnik's conduct has dominated the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "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 ineffective and "completely unacceptable".

Naroditsky's Legacy

A graduate of Stanford and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on streaming platforms. Referred to as Danya, he was praised 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 speed chess title event in New York.

Naroditsky consistently denied the allegations but acknowledged the toll they had taken on his mental health. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I start doing well, people assume the worst," Naroditsky said in his last online broadcast.

Official Responses

The International Chess Federation (Fide) said this week it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Sutovsky commented. The organization intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize.

Fide president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be submitted to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "to be reviewed independently".

"Life and human worth are core principles shared by all of us," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has long respected the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a duty to uphold the principles of equity and consideration."

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's relatives have expressed they wish he is remembered not for the hostility he endured but for "the happiness and motivation he brought people every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Hikaru Nakamura referred to him as "the best of us".

• Within the United States, you can call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to reach a crisis counselor.
• In the UK and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected].
• Across Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14.
• Global support contacts can be located through befrienders.org.