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The former world champion has spoken out after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "deeply cynical and illegal campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones.

Former Champion's Response

The fifty-year-old ex-champion, who has faced broad criticism for accusing Naroditsky of digital foul play lacking proof, offered sympathies but denied any individual targeting.

"Despite the tensions, I was the only person in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's apparent health concerns a day before his death, openly urged for him to receive help," Kramnik declared. "The ensuing efforts, immediately following his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident to my name … violate every limit of basic human morality."

Kramnik said his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's online play had been overlooked "despite a significant amount of evidence", and claimed he would submit documentation to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing civil and criminal suits over "false accusations" that have led to threats against him and his family.

Police Findings

The demise of the grandmaster 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 indicates Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation."

"On Sunday October 19th at around 7:11 PM, officers responded to an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unresponsive subject was located and later pronounced deceased by a medic."

Community Reaction

Outrage regarding Kramnik's conduct has dominated the chess world. Grandmaster Nakamura described his actions "disgusting", while five-time world champion Carlsen labeled it "terrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against suspected cheaters was fruitless and "completely unacceptable".

Grandmaster's Impact

A Stanford-educated prodigy and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on Twitch and YouTube. Known as Danya, he was celebrated for his humor, clarity and humility, becoming a prominent figure in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also among the globe's top competitors under shorter time controls, placing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York.

Naroditsky consistently denied 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 remarked in his final livestream.

Organizational Statements

The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology simply is unacceptable," Fide CEO 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 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 achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a responsibility to maintain the standards of fairness and respect."

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's family have said they hope he is remembered not for the hostility he endured but for "the happiness and motivation he brought people every day". Carlsen called him "a resource to the chess community", while Hikaru Nakamura referred to him as "among the finest".

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