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The former world champion has spoken out after the death of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's loss as a tragedy while accusing critics for mounting what he termed an "deeply cynical and unlawful campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones.

Kramnik's Statement

The 50-year-old ex-champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for alleging Naroditsky of digital foul play lacking proof, expressed condolences but rejected any individual targeting.

"Regardless of our differences, I was the only person in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's apparent health concerns a day before his death, publicly called for him to get assistance," Kramnik stated. "The subsequent attempts, immediately following his passing, to directly link this sorrowful incident to my name … cross all boundaries of basic human morality."

Kramnik said his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's digital games had been ignored "even with substantial proof", and stated he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He noted his lawyers were drafting 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, according to a police report released Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities says Naroditsky was discovered deceased Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation."

"On Sunday October 19th at approximately 07:11pm, officers answered an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the report says. "Upon arrival, an unresponsive subject was located and later declared dead by a medical professional."

Chess World Response

Outrage regarding Kramnik's behavior has dominated the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "appalling", while reigning champion Carlsen labeled it "terrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, accused Kramnik of "taking a life", saying his self-appointed pursuit 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. Referred to 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 shorter time controls, placing ninth at last year's speed chess title event in New York.

Naroditsky consistently denied the accusations but acknowledged the toll they had taken on his mental health. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I start doing well, people assume the worst," Naroditsky remarked in his final livestream.

Organizational Statements

The International Chess Federation (Fide) said this week it was "investigating" Kramnik's actions. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Sutovsky commented. The organization intends to commemorate 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 submitted to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "to be reviewed independently".

"Human life and dignity are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "The chess community has long respected 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 family have said they wish he is remembered not for the confrontation he faced but for "the joy and inspiration he provided others every day". Carlsen described him "an asset to chess", while Hikaru Nakamura described him as "among the finest".

• Within the United States, individuals may contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, communicate via 988lifeline.org, or message HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
• Throughout Britain and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or message [email protected] or [email protected].
• In Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14.
• Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.