The former world champion has spoken out after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's demise as a heartbreaking event while condemning critics for launching what he termed an "deeply cynical and unlawful targeted harassment" against him and his family.
Kramnik's Statement
The 50-year-old ex-champion, who has faced broad criticism for alleging Naroditsky of digital foul play lacking proof, expressed condolences but denied any personal attacks.
"Despite the tensions, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's apparent health concerns a day before his death, openly urged for him to receive help," Kramnik declared. "The subsequent attempts, immediately following his passing, to explicitly connect 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 preparing civil and criminal suits over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family.
Police Findings
The death of Naroditsky may have been the result of a drug overdose and is being examined as a potential self-harm case, based on a police report issued last Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities says Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Investigation into sudden death."
"On Sunday October 19th 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 unresponsive subject was found and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional."
Community Reaction
Outrage regarding Kramnik's conduct has shaken the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura described his actions "appalling", while five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen described it as "terrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his self-appointed pursuit against alleged rule-breakers was ineffective and "totally inappropriate".
Naroditsky's Legacy
A graduate of Stanford 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 leading voice in chess's COVID-period surge. 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 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 start doing well, people assume the worst," Naroditsky said in his last online broadcast.
Official Responses
The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Sutovsky commented. The federation plans to honor Naroditsky with a tribute prize.
Federation president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be referred to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "for independent consideration".
"Human life and dignity are fundamental values shared by all of us," Dvorkovich stressed. "Our global chess family has long respected the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of fairness and respect."
Loved Ones' Wish
Naroditsky's relatives have said they wish he is recalled not because of the hostility he endured but for "the happiness and motivation he brought people every day". Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Nakamura described him as "among the finest".
- 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 support specialist.
- Throughout Britain and Ireland, The 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.
- Global support contacts can be found at befrienders.org.
