The global chess community is in shock following the sudden passing of Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky at the age of 29. The Charlotte Chess Center confirmed the heartbreaking news on October 20, 2025, issuing a statement on behalf of his family.
Born in the San Francisco Bay Area, Daniel was a true prodigy. He captured the Under-12 World Youth Chess Championship in 2007 and earned his Grandmaster title in 2013. After graduating from Stanford University, he settled in North Carolina, where he became a beloved resident Grandmaster, coach, and content creator known for his ability to make complex strategies accessible to everyone.
Tributes Pour In
Tributes have flooded social media from fans and peers alike. Danny Rensch of Chess.com described Daniel as an “inspirational face of our game,” while fellow creator GothamChess remembered him as a “brilliant man.” Close friend Grandmaster Olexandr Bortnyk shared his grief, noting that Daniel’s final known text message was a kind birthday wish sent to him just hours before his death.
A Lasting Legacy
Just days prior to his passing, Daniel had posted a YouTube video announcing his return to content creation, appearing upbeat and ready to teach. While the cause of death remains undisclosed and the family has requested privacy, Daniel leaves behind a profound legacy as a world-class player and a generous educator who shaped the lives of countless students.
