Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky Found Dead at 29, Sparking Grief

The chess world is mourning the unexpected passing of Daniel Naroditsky, a prominent U.S. grandmaster and commentator, who was found dead on his couch by his best friend, fellow grandmaster Oleksandr Bortnyk, on Sunday. Naroditsky, who was only 29 years old, had not responded to calls from friends, prompting Bortnyk to check on him. After noticing the television on and receiving no answer, Bortnyk entered the home using a key he had.

Bortnyk shared his devastating experience during a heartfelt Twitch stream on Monday, where he recounted the moment he discovered his friend. “I found him dead on the couch,” he told his viewers. He explained that he and another friend from the Charlotte Chess Center had gone to Naroditsky’s residence after concerns about his well-being. In a poignant reflection, Bortnyk recalled his last words to Naroditsky: “Danya, don’t worry about anything. I love you so much.” He expressed gratitude that his final words were supportive.

The news was first announced by the Charlotte Chess Center and later confirmed by Chess.com, leading to an outpouring of tributes from the global chess community. “It is with great sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Daniel Naroditsky,” the Charlotte Chess Center stated. “Daniel was a talented chess player, educator, and cherished member of the chess community. He was also a loving son, brother, and loyal friend.”

In a statement, Danny Rensch, Chief Chess Officer of Chess.com, expressed profound sorrow over the loss. “Danya was more than an amazing, inspirational face of our game; he was a friend and brother,” Rensch said. “The news is devastating for the chess world and all who knew him. It’s impossible to put words to this kind of loss.”

While no official cause of death has been disclosed, discussions among fans and commentators have highlighted pressures Naroditsky may have been facing. Recently, he reportedly expressed concerns about ongoing cheating accusations involving Vladimir Kramnik. Following a challenging period where Naroditsky faced a losing streak, he worried about the implications of a decline in his ranking and how it might affect public perception.

As the community grapples with this tragic news, the focus remains on honoring Naroditsky’s legacy. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time, underscoring the profound impact of his sudden passing. The chess world has lost a brilliant mind and a beloved figure, a poignant reminder of the unseen challenges that many individuals face. Naroditsky’s contributions as a player, educator, and friend have left an enduring mark on the community he cherished.