Tragic Loss: US Chess Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky Passes Away at 29

Tue Oct 21 2025 17:57:22 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Daniel Naroditsky, a prominent US chess grandmaster and beloved online personality, has died unexpectedly at the age of 29, just weeks shy of his 30th birthday.

The chess community mourns the sudden death of Daniel Naroditsky, who gained fame as a grandmaster, commentator, and educator. His passing was announced by the Charlotte Chess Center, leaving fans and fellow players heartbroken. Naroditsky was known for his captivating online content and contributions to the game, earning the respect of many in the chess world.

US chess grandmaster and online commentator Daniel Naroditsky has died aged 29.

The popular chess player's family announced his 'unexpected' death in a statement released by his club, the Charlotte Chess Center, on Monday. No cause of death was given.

'It is with great sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Daniel Naroditsky,' the statement said. 'Daniel was a talented chess player, commentator and educator, and a cherished member of the chess community, admired and respected by fans and players around the world.'

The US and International chess federations have paid tribute to Naroditsky, along with other professional players.

American world number two Hikaru Nakamura said he was 'devastated' at the news, calling it 'a massive loss for the world of chess.'

Naroditsky first took an interest in chess at the age of six, when his older brother Alan introduced him to the game to help entertain a group of children at a birthday party. His father Vladimir and multiple coaches soon noticed his talents.

Naroditsky gained international attention in 2007 when he won the under-12 boys world youth championship in Antalya, Turkey. At just 14, he became one of the youngest ever published chess authors when he wrote 'Mastering Positional Chess.'

In 2013, Naroditsky won the US Junior Championship, earning the title of grandmaster while still a teenager.

Naroditsky graduated from Stanford University and worked as a chess coach in Charlotte, North Carolina. He gained significant recognition in the online chess community with his YouTube channel and Twitch stream, where he shared valuable insights and engaged with fans.

In 2022, he was named the New York Times 'new chess columnist,' showcasing his passion and influence in the chess world.

Naroditsky's sudden passing has left a profound impact on the chess community, where he was a beloved figure known for his knowledge, talent, and enthusiasm for the game.