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The chess community is in shock after American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, 29, was found dead. The news was confirmed via the X account of the Charlotte Chess Center, where his family shared: “Daniel was a talented chess player, educator, and beloved member of the chess community. We ask for privacy as the family grieves.”

Naroditsky, widely known as “Danya,” became a Grandmaster in 2013 at the age of 18 and was consistently ranked among the world’s top 200 players and the US top 15 in classical chess. He was also a top contender in Rapid and Blitz formats, achieving a FIDE Blitz rating of 2732 in August 2025. Earlier this year, he clinched the US National Blitz Championship.

While the exact circumstances of Naroditsky’s death remain unclear, questions have arisen following his last Twitch stream, which some fans described as a “mental break.” Observers noted unusual behavior, including incoherent speech and rapid movements, raising concern among his online followers.

Adding to the speculation, fellow US Grandmaster Vladimir Kramnik suggested that foul play could be involved. In a post pinned on his X profile, Kramnik wrote: “Awful tragedy, hope properly investigated. To those who prefer blaming and shaming instead of helping… What exactly happened?”

No official cause of death has been confirmed by authorities or Naroditsky’s family, intensifying global curiosity and concern. Fans and chess players have been calling for a thorough investigation.

Tributes poured in from the international chess community. World No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura said, “I’m devastated. This is a massive loss for the world of chess.” Indian Grandmasters Srinath Narayanan and Vidit Gujrathi described the news as “tragic” and “absolutely shocking.” Alireza Firouzja added: “Heartbreaking. My deepest condolences.”

Beyond his achievements on the board, Naroditsky was admired for his educational content on Twitch and YouTube, where he had hundreds of thousands of followers. Fans remember him not only as a brilliant player but also as a generous educator and beloved personality in the chess world.

As the investigation continues, the global chess community mourns the untimely loss of one of its brightest talents, while questions surrounding Daniel Naroditsky’s death remain unanswered.

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