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The former world champion has spoken out after the death of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's loss as a tragedy while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal targeted harassment" against him and his family.

Former Champion's Response

The fifty-year-old ex-champion, who has faced broad criticism for alleging Naroditsky of digital foul play without evidence, offered sympathies but rejected any individual targeting.

"Despite the tensions, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, openly urged for him to receive help," Kramnik stated. "The ensuing efforts, immediately following his passing, to directly link this tragic event to my name … violate every limit of fundamental human decency."

Kramnik asserted his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's digital games had been overlooked "even with substantial proof", and stated he would submit documentation to "any relevant authority". He noted his lawyers were drafting legal actions 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 investigated as a possible suicide, according to a police report issued last Thursday. A report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police department says Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation."

"Last Sunday, October 19 at around 7:11 PM, officers responded to an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the report says. "Upon arrival, an unresponsive subject was found and later declared dead by a medical professional."

Community Reaction

Outrage regarding Kramnik's behavior has dominated the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while five-time world champion Carlsen labeled it "terrible". Indian grandmaster Nihal 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 graduate of Stanford and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on streaming platforms. Referred to as Danya, he was celebrated for his humor, clarity and humility, becoming a leading voice in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also among the globe's top competitors under shorter time controls, finishing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York.

Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the allegations but admitted the impact they had taken on his psychological well-being. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I start doing well, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his last online broadcast.

Official Responses

The International Chess Federation (Fide) said this week it was "investigating" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide CEO Emil Sutovsky commented. The federation intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a tribute prize.

Fide president Dvorkovich later confirmed that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be submitted to the federation's disciplinary body "for independent consideration".

"Human life and dignity are core principles universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has always valued the accomplishments of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a duty to maintain the standards of equity and consideration."

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's relatives have said they hope he is recalled not because of the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", 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 message HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist.
• Throughout Britain and Ireland, Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie.
• In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14.
• Global support contacts can be located through befrienders.org.