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Vladimir Kramnik has broken his silence after the tragic passing of American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, describing the 29-year-old's loss as a heartbreaking event while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal targeted harassment" against him and his loved ones.

Kramnik's Statement

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

"Despite the tensions, I was the only person 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 stated. "The subsequent attempts, 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 online play had been overlooked "even with substantial proof", and claimed he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing civil and criminal suits over "unfounded claims" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family.

Investigation Details

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

Chess World Response

Anger over Kramnik's behavior has dominated the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "disgusting", while five-time world champion Carlsen described it as "terrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "taking a life", saying his vigilante campaign against suspected cheaters was ineffective and "completely unacceptable".

Grandmaster's Impact

A Stanford-educated prodigy and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on Twitch and YouTube. Referred to as Danya, he was praised for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a prominent figure 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 blitz world championship in New York.

Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the accusations 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 remarked in his final livestream.

Organizational Statements

The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "looking into" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply is unacceptable," Fide CEO Sutovsky commented. The organization plans to honor Naroditsky with a tribute prize.

Federation president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be submitted to the federation's disciplinary body "to be reviewed independently".

"Human life and dignity are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "Our global chess family has always valued the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a responsibility to uphold the principles of fairness and respect."

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's family have expressed they hope he is remembered not for the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he brought people every day". Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Hikaru Nakamura referred to 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 support specialist.
• In the UK 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.
• Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.