Chess Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky Dies at 29 — Here’s What We Know

The chess world is grieving the sudden loss of Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, a beloved player, commentator, and educator who passed away at 29. The Charlotte Chess Center shared the news on behalf of his family, describing him as a gifted chess figure and a cherished friend to many. The cause of death has not been disclosed, and his family requested privacy while remembering his passion for the game.

Born in the San Francisco Bay Area, Naroditsky learned chess at age six and quickly showed exceptional talent. His early breakthrough came in 2007 when he won gold at the Under-12 World Youth Chess Championship in Turkey.

He became an International Master in 2011 and earned his Grandmaster title two years later after surpassing the 2500 FIDE rating. By 2014, he had crossed 2600, solidifying his place among America’s top players.

After graduating from Stanford University in 2019, Naroditsky moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he served as resident grandmaster and built a devoted following as a chess coach and Twitch streamer.

Renowned for his deep understanding of chess, he authored Mastering Positional Chess at age 14, earning praise for its insight. In 2014, he received the prestigious Samford Fellowship, supporting elite young U.S. players.

Tributes poured in from across the chess community. Chess.com’s Danny Rensch called him “a friend and brother,” while GM Olexandr Bortnyk and YouTuber GothamChess expressed heartbreak over his passing.

Naroditsky’s final YouTube video appeared just days before his death, showing his trademark humor and optimism. His legacy—as a prodigy, teacher, and ambassador for chess—will continue to inspire players worldwide.