(U.S.): The global chess community is mourning the sudden passing of Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, one of the most talented and respected figures in modern chess. He died unexpectedly on Sunday at the age of 29, just weeks before his 30th birthday.

The news was first shared by the Charlotte Chess Center, where Naroditsky served as Grandmaster-in-Residence, and later confirmed by Chess.com.

“It is with great sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Daniel Naroditsky. Daniel was a talented chess player, educator, and cherished member of the chess community. He was also a loving son, brother, and loyal friend,” the Center said in a statement.

A moment of silence was observed at the 2025 U.S. Chess Championship on Monday to honor the late GM, who had competed in the event five times.

A Prodigy Turned Global Icon

Born in San Mateo, California, Naroditsky learned chess from his father at age six and quickly rose through the ranks. He became the youngest winner of the Northern California K–12 Championship, and his international breakthrough came at age 12 when he won gold at the 2007 World Youth Chess Championship (U12).

By 18, he had earned the Grandmaster title (2013), won the U.S. Junior Championship, and later represented the United States in the 2015 World Team Championship, where he scored a notable victory over GM Dmitry Jakovenko.

Naroditsky, affectionately known as “Danya,” also defeated world No. 2 Fabiano Caruana at the 2021 U.S. Championship and captured the 2025 U.S. National Blitz Championship with a perfect score of 14/14.

At the time of his passing, his FIDE rating stood at 2619, placing him among the top 150 players worldwide.

A Voice and Teacher of Modern Chess

Beyond the board, Naroditsky became one of the most beloved educators and commentators in chess. His Twitch and YouTube channels, with over 800,000 combined followers, attracted a global audience through insightful analysis, humor, and kindness.

Chess.com’s Chief Chess Officer IM Danny Rensch said:

“Danya was more than an amazing, inspirational face of our game — he was a friend and brother. It’s impossible to put words to this kind of loss.”

Content creator IM Levy Rozman (GothamChess) called him “a brilliant, brilliant individual,” while GM Hikaru Nakamura described the news as “devastating.”

Naroditsky’s influence also reached outside the chess world. YouTuber Cr1TiKaL (Charles White), whom Naroditsky coached for over a year, said:

“Daniel was such a bright light in the chess community. His love of the game was infectious… He was an amazing teacher and a great friend.”

A Legacy Rooted in Kindness and Knowledge

A Stanford University graduate in history, Naroditsky authored his first book, Mastering Positional Chess, at just 14 years old. He later wrote several acclaimed works and contributed to the growth of American chess through coaching, commentary, and mentorship.

IM John Donaldson, who coached him as a child, remembered:

“Daniel enjoyed everything about chess — playing, studying, and its history. His humor, curiosity, and kindness made him truly unique.”

Tributes from Across the World

Messages of grief and remembrance poured in from top players and fans alike:

  • GM Hikaru Nakamura: “A massive loss for the world of chess.”
  • WFM Anna Cramling: “What an incredible human being he was. Rest in peace, Danya.”
  • GM Vidit Gujrathi: “Absolutely shocking. My deepest condolences.”
  • GM Susan Polgar: “Always a nice and polite kid… This is shocking.”
  • IM Eric Rosen: “He truly made the world a better place and will be missed more than words can express.”

Remembering Daniel Naroditsky

Naroditsky’s legacy extends far beyond his victories. His teaching, compassion, and commitment to making chess accessible have left an indelible mark on millions worldwide.

“The world lost a brilliant man today,” said Rozman. “May his memory live on forever, and may we always cherish his contributions to our beautiful game.”