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The former world champion has broken his silence after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's loss as a tragedy while condemning critics for mounting what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal targeted harassment" against him and his family.

Kramnik's Statement

The fifty-year-old former world champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for alleging Naroditsky of digital foul play lacking proof, offered sympathies but denied any personal attacks.

"Despite the tensions, I was the sole individual 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 declared. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to directly link this tragic event to my name … cross all boundaries of basic human morality."

Kramnik said 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 mentioned his lawyers were drafting civil and criminal suits over "unfounded claims" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family.

Police Findings

The death of Naroditsky may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being investigated as a possible suicide, according to a police report issued last Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities says Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and describes 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 document states. "Upon arrival, an unresponsive subject was found and later declared dead by a medic."

Chess World Response

Anger over Kramnik's behavior has dominated the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while five-time world champion Carlsen described it as "horrible". GM from India Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his self-appointed pursuit against suspected cheaters was ineffective and "totally inappropriate".

Grandmaster's Impact

A Stanford-educated prodigy and former world youth champion, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers 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 speed chess title event in New York.

Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the allegations but admitted the impact they had taken on his mental health. "Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky remarked in his final livestream.

Organizational Statements

The International Chess Federation (Fide) announced recently it was "looking into" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology simply is unacceptable," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky stated. The federation intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a memorial award.

Fide president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be referred to the federation's disciplinary body "to be reviewed independently".

"Human life and dignity are fundamental values shared by all of us," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has always valued the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of equity and consideration."

Family's Hope

Naroditsky's relatives have expressed they hope he is remembered not for the hostility he endured but for "the joy and inspiration he provided others every day". Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Hikaru 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 text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
• Throughout Britain and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected].
• Across Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14.
• Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.