How Daniel Naroditsky became chess grandmaster age 18 as child prodigy dies age 29
A chess grandmaster who amassed hundreds of thousands of followers on social media has died 'unexpectedly' at the age of 29.
Daniel Naroditsky was one of the most famous and recognisable chess figures in America, and gathered fans all over the world after live streaming his matches and sharing educational content about the game.
His death was announced in a statement last night (20 October) from the Charlotte Chess Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, where the 29-year-old served as a head coach to junior players.
"It is with great sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Daniel Naroditsky," the statement read.
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"Daniel was a talented chess player, commentator and educator, and a cherished member of the chess community, admired and respected by fans and players around the world. He was also a loving son and brother, and a loyal friend to many.
"Let us remember Daniel for his passion and love for the game of chess, and for the joy and inspiration he brought to us all every day."
The cause of his death has not been confirmed.
Daniel Naroditsky chess grandmaster at 18
Naroditsky began his chess career at the tender age of six, earning the title of grandmaster, the highest title awarded by the International Chess Federation to the world's top players, when he was just 18 years old in 2013.
From a young age it was clear he had a real talent for the game, winning grade-level national championships twice, before becoming the youngest player to ever claim the California K-12 Championship when he was in the fifth grade in 2007.
Later that year, he won the under-12 World Youth Chess Championship, gaining international attention as one of the US' most promising young chess players.
In addition to his impressive career as a player, Naroditsky had a flare for teaching others how to play chess, publishing his first manual at the age of just 14, before going on to become the New York Times' chess columnist.
Known by his followers as 'Danya', he amassed hundreds of thousands of followers across YouTube and Twitch, live streaming games and guiding his viewers through every move.
Chilling final post on social media
Just days before his death, Naroditsky returned to social media following a three month hiatus, by posting a chess speed run walkthrough on YouTube.
He titled the video: "You thought I was gone?! Speedrun returns!"
And in the video's intro, he says: "You thought I was gone forever, but now I'm back and better than ever."
Naroditsky's followers have been quick to comment on the disturbing coincidence of his final post just days before his untimely death.
"I can't believe we will never get another video from this legend. I feel sick. Rest in Peace to the best chess teacher on YT," one fan wrote.
Another added: "This title hits hard now, I'm so sad this is the final episode."
Emma Rosemurgey