Chess superstar Daniel Naroditsky was incoherent in final stream before his death

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Chess Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky’s Final Livestream Raises Concerns

US chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky’s final video before his untimely death has left fans and followers deeply concerned. In the video, Naroditsky appeared incoherent, rambling, and half-asleep as he addressed baseless cheating accusations against him.

The 29-year-old chess superstar, hailing from Charlotte, NC, looked visibly gaunt and distracted as he played chess in a livestream shared with subscribers just days before news of his passing was announced.

Naroditsky had been embroiled in a feud with Russian former chess world champion Vladimir Kramnik, who had accused the American player of cheating. Despite the allegations, Naroditsky vehemently denied any wrongdoing.

Daniel Naroditsky was incoherent, rambling, and half asleep during his final livestream on Oct. 17. David Naroditsky/YouTube

In his last stream on October 17, Naroditsky expressed frustration with the negative attention he had been receiving. “Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people assume the worst of intentions,” he shared with his viewers.

During the stream, Naroditsky also hinted that it might be his final broadcast. Reading a comment from a subscriber about the cheating allegations, he responded, “This will not be the last time he faces criticism or trolling.” Naroditsky then added, “Oh, it actually will be.”

Daniel Naroditsky playing chess. — Naroditsky had been feuding with Russian former chess world champion Vladimir Kramnik, who had accused the American of cheating. AP

Despite the troubling nature of the video, no official cause of death has been announced by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, leaving fans mourning the loss of a talented and controversial figure in the chess world.

Watch the video above to see Daniel Naroditsky’s final livestream before his passing.