The U.S. chess community is in deep sorrow following the sudden death of Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, who passed away at just 29 years old. The Charlotte Chess Center in North Carolina, where he served as the head coach, announced his passing, describing it as “heartbreaking and completely unexpected” for chess enthusiasts across the world.
Born in the San Francisco Bay Area, Naroditsky started playing chess at the tender age of six and quickly showed exceptional brilliance. By his teenage years, he had already earned the Grandmaster title, making him one of the youngest and most talented American chess prodigies of his generation.
Over the course of his career, he claimed several national titles and notably won the World Youth Chess Championship (Under-12) in 2007. A graduate of Stanford University, he earned a degree in history, balancing his academic journey with his undying passion for chess.
Beyond competitive chess, Naroditsky became a fan favorite online, amassing nearly half a million YouTube subscribers and a massive following on Twitch, where he shared his love for the game through insightful tutorials and live streams. His soothing voice, sharp analysis, and warm personality drew fans from all corners of the globe.
He also authored two books, contributed to Chess Life magazine, and began writing a chess column for The New York Times in 2022. His Twitch bio captured his joyful spirit perfectly: “Hop into my stream for great chess, good tunes, and an amazing community!!”
Tributes have continued to pour in from around the world. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) praised him as a “brilliant player and gifted teacher whose impact reached countless players.” During the 2025 U.S. Chess Championship, the Saint Louis Chess Club held a moment of silence in his honor, calling him “a cherished figure in the chess world whose passion and kindness will live on forever.”
