Shock and Sadness: American Chess Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky Dies Suddenly Aged 29
- American chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky has died at the age of 29, leaving the chess community in shock and mourning
- The talented player, commentator, and educator was one of the United States’ most recognised chess figures, having become a grandmaster in 2013
- No cause of death has been given, but tributes have poured in from around the world, with players and fans praising Naroditsky’s teaching skills and friendly personality
American chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky has died suddenly at the age of 29, his family has announced. The news has sent shockwaves through the chess community, with players and fans around the world mourning the loss of a talented and beloved figure.
“It is with great sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Daniel Naroditsky,” the family said in a statement released by his club, the Charlotte Chess Center, on Monday.
Naroditsky was a youth world champion and became a grandmaster in 2013. In addition to competing – he finished ninth in the blitz world championship last year – he was a popular commentator, writer, and online educator, streaming regularly on platforms such as Twitch and YouTube.
“I’m devastated,” American world number two Hikaru Nakamura said. “This is a massive loss for the world of chess.”
Danny Rensch, one of the key figures with prominent chess website Chess.com, described Naroditsky as “more than an amazing, inspirational face of our game — he was a friend and brother”. “The news is devastating for the chess world and all who knew him. It’s impossible to put words to this kind of loss,” Rensch said.
Born in California in 1995, Naroditsky was one of the United States’ most recognisable chess figures, known for his exceptional skill and warm personality. His sudden passing has left the chess community reeling, with tributes pouring in from around the world.
As the chess world struggles to come to terms with the loss of this talented young player, fans and players alike are paying tribute to Naroditsky’s memory, remembering him as a brilliant and kind soul who inspired countless others with his passion for the game.