American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky has died suddenly at 29, shocking the global chess community. His family hasn’t revealed the cause, but former World Champion Vladimir Kramnik has raised concerns of foul play, urging a proper investigation.
American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky’s sudden demise sent shockwaves across the chess world on Tuesday, October 21. Naroditsky unexpectedly passed away at the age of 29, as confirmed by Charlotte Chess Center, where he served as head coach, on October 20, 2025. Daniel Naroditsky’s family put out a statement requesting privacy during this difficult time and did not disclose the cause of his sudden death.
The sudden demise of the American Grandmaster and commentator came to light after the International Chess Federation confirmed the news on its X handle (formerly Twitter), hailing him as a ‘talented’ chess player, coach, and educator while expressing its condolences to his family.
“GM Daniel Naroditsky passed away. He was a talented chess player, commentator, and educator. FIDE extends its deepest condolences to Daniel’s family and loved ones,” the FIDE Chess wrote on X.
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American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky was widely admired not only for his achievements on the board but also for his contributions to chess through his mentorship, coaching, role as a commentator, and his engaging online presence that inspired and educated chess enthusiasts worldwide.
Chess Fraternity in Shock over Naroditsky’s Demise
The International Chess Federation’s confirmation of the sudden passing of Daniel Naroditsky has sent shockwaves through the chess fraternity across the globe. The chess community was in disbelief, with tributes pouring in from grandmasters and fans worldwide.
The Charlotte Chess Center and the family of Daniel Naroditsky announced the sudden demise of the American Grandmaster on Monday, but the news only gained widespread attention after the FIDE tribute on its X handle (formerly Twitter). Following the FIDE statement, the chess fraternity across the globe poured in their tribute to Daniel Naroditsky, who was one of the influential figures in the sport.
The likes of R Praggnanandhaa, Hikaru Nakamura, Vidit Gujarati, Srinath Narayanan, India chess coach Ramesh RB, Hans Niemann, Viswanathan Anand, Garry Kasparov, and others have expressed their shock and grief, remembering Naroditsky as a brilliant player, mentor, and commentator.
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Daniel Naroditsky was first shot to fame when he won the under-12 category of the World Youth Chess Championship in 2007, quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising young talents in the international chess scene.
In 2013, Naroditsky was officially awarded the Grandmaster title after achieving the required norms and an Elo rating of 2500 or above, cementing his place among the elite young talents in international chess.
Vladimir Kramnik Suspects Foul Play in Naroditsky’s Death
Former World Chess Champion, Vladimir Kramnik, who was once accused Daniel Naroditsky of cheating, allegedly foul play in the American Grandmaster’s sudden demise.
The cause of Naroditsky’s death remains undisclosed as his family has sought privacy at this hour of grief, but Kramnik raised concerns over substance abuse, suggesting a proper investigation might be necessary to clarify the circumstances of the sudden passing away of the American Grandmaster.
“What exactly happened? Because I received this two days ago from a friend of mine, chess fan, and at least did what I could to warn people to do something urgently in my posts. To those who prefer blaming and shaming instead of helping. Awful tragedy, hope properly investigated.” Vladimir Kramnik wrote on X.
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Daniel Naroditsky had his YouTube channel, where he amassed over 486,000 subscribers, most of whom are his fans and chess enthusiasts, who eagerly followed his tutorials, game analyses, and live streams to improve their skills and enjoy his chess content.
Naroditsky’s death has left a huge void in the chess community, as fans, students, and players mourning the loss of a talented grandmaster.