American chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky dies at 29; no cause of death yet announced, chess world in shock

American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, a celebrated chess prodigy, educator and content creator, has died at the age of 29. The Charlotte Chess Center announced his death, without releasing a cause of death. The sudden death of 29-year-old chess grandmaster shocked the chess world. Daniel Naroditsky has inspired millions through his tournaments, books and online platforms and earned admiration across the global chess community. (Image: Charlotte Chess Center/X) Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, one of the brightest stars in American chess and a beloved educator and content creator, has died unexpectedly at the age of 29. The news was announced by the Charlotte Chess Center on Monday, sending shockwaves through the global chess community. “It is with great sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Daniel Naroditsky,” the center said in a statement. “Daniel was a talented chess player, educator and beloved member of the chess community. He was also a loving son, brother and loyal friend.” Charlotte Chess Center said: “Let’s honor Daniel by remembering his passion for chess and the inspiration he brought to us all.” So far, no official cause of death has been released. His family and authorities have not provided details about the circumstances surrounding his death. A prodigy and champion, Naroditsky, born in 1995, has emerged as one of the most promising talents in American chess. He won the gold medal in the Under-12 division of the 2007 FIDE World Youth Championships and became the 2013 US Junior Champion at age 17. He earned the Grandmaster title that same year at 18 and peaked at 2647 in 2017. He has also represented the United States in five U.S. Championships, Post 4, and just posted his first U.S. Championships, Post 1. From 2014 to 2020, he was a regular columnist for Chess Life magazine. Commentator and Educator Beyond competitive chess, Naroditsky has become a household name in the online chess world. His Twitch channel, with more than 340,000 followers, and YouTube channel, with almost half a million subscribers, have made him one of the most popular chess streamers worldwide. His educational style, insightful commentary and approachable personality won him admiration from players of all levels. Tributes poured in. Top players and fans expressed their grief at Naroditsky’s untimely passing. World no. 2 Hikaru Nakamura wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “I am devastated. This is a massive loss for the world of chess.” Indian grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi called the news “absolutely shocking”. Many others from the global chess community shared memories of Naroditsky’s passion for the game and his generosity in teaching and inspiring others. Legacy At just 29, Daniel Naroditsky’s influence on the chess world has been immense – spanning tournament halls, classrooms and streaming platforms. His passing leaves a void in both professional and popular chess culture.