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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 tragedy while condemning critics for mounting what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal campaign of 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 rejected any personal attacks.

"Regardless of our differences, I was the only person in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, publicly called for him to receive help," Kramnik declared. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident to my name … cross all boundaries of basic human morality."

Kramnik asserted his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's online play had been overlooked "despite a significant amount of evidence", and claimed he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He noted his lawyers were preparing legal actions over "unfounded claims" that have resulted in dangers 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, based on 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 "Investigation into sudden death."

"Last Sunday, October 19 at around 7:11 PM, officers answered an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the report says. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was found and later pronounced deceased 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 Magnus Carlsen described it as "terrible". GM from India Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his final online match, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against alleged rule-breakers was ineffective and "completely unacceptable".

Naroditsky's Legacy

A graduate of Stanford and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky gathered more than 800k fans on streaming platforms. 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 one of the world's finest players under rapid formats, 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 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.

Official Responses

The World Chess Federation announced recently it was "looking into" Kramnik's actions. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Sutovsky commented. The federation plans to honor Naroditsky with a memorial award.

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

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

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's relatives have said they hope he is remembered not for the hostility he endured 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".

• In the US, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist.
• In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected].
• In Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline is 13 11 14.
• Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.