Featured Image Credit: Charlotte Chess Center
Topics: YouTube, US News, Sport, Social Media
Ellie Kemp
Topics: YouTube, US News, Sport, Social Media
US chess grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky posted a chilling video to his YouTube channel days before his death aged 29.
The former World Junior Champion achieved grandmaster status - the highest rank in chess - at the age of 18 and had penned multiple books about the sport.
From 2019 Naroditsky, known as Danya, took to YouTube to teach chess online. He was credited with introducing the game to a wider audience.
Born in San Mateo, California, Naroditsky became a chess prodigy, having learnt from his father at just six years old.
Advert
He went on to win the World Youth Chess Championship in the category for boys under 12, before earning the title of grandmaster at the age of 18.
The Charlotte Chess Center, where he coached junior players, confirmed news of Naroditsky's 'unexpected' passing on Monday, October 20.
Taking to social media, they shared an announcement from his family which read: "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."
Naroditsky's cause of death is yet to be publicly disclosed.
Others members of the chess community have since paid tribute.
In a Kick stream, Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura credited Naroditsky with helping to change the perception of chess.
“He loved streaming, and he loved trying to be educational,” he said. “The chess world is very grateful” he continued, adding that Naroditsky was 'someone who tried to do what he could for chess.'
"I am a bit of a mess obviously," he said in light of the tragic news.
Elsewhere, on Twitch, grandmaster Oleksandr Bortnyk described Naroditsky as 'a very talented chess player' and 'a very good guy.'
He added: "Very kind guy. He was a good friend."
Just days before his death, Naroditsky had returned to YouTube with a chess speed run walkthrough.
It was his first video of that kind in three months.
Hauntingly, he titled it: "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."
Fans took to the comments to pay tribute and point out the freaky coincidence.
"This title hits hard now, I'm so sad this is the final episode," one wrote.
"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," a second said.
"Closing words are: 'I’m gonna get some food, and get some rest.' Rest in peace Danya," a third said.