Daniel Naroditsky

1995 - 2025

Daniel Naroditsky obituary, 1995-2025

Daniel Naroditsky

1995 - 2025

BORN

1995

DIED

2025

Daniel Naroditsky Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Oct. 21 to Oct. 22, 2025.
Daniel Naroditsky, a celebrated American chess grandmaster, author and online educator, died at the age of 29 on October 19, 2025.

Born in San Mateo, California on November 9, 1995, Naroditsky was the son of Jewish immigrants - his father from Ukraine and his mother from Azerbaijan. From an early age he demonstrated a gift for the game. He learned chess at age six and by 2007 had captured the gold medal in the under-12 section of the World Youth Chess Championship.

At the end of 2013, when he was just 18, Naroditsky earned the highest title in chess: Grandmaster. He followed that success with a diverse career: competitive over-the-board events, online streaming and commentary, and educational projects that widened the reach of chess. A longtime fixture in the top 200 of classical chess and among the top 25 globally in blitz formats, his peak rating reached 2647 in May 2017.

A committed educator of the game, Naroditsky authored books at a young age - his first published when he was just 14 - and wrote columns for the New York Times and Chess Life. He also built a strong online presence with hundreds of thousands of YouTube subscribers and a large Twitch following, helping to bring chess to wider and younger audiences.

In 2020 he relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, taking on a prominent role with the Charlotte Chess Center. As grandmaster in residence and head coach at the center, he devoted himself to nurturing the next generation of players.

His sudden passing has left a profound void in the chess world. In a statement, his family described him as "a talented chess player, commentator, and educator, and a cherished member of the chess community," asking for privacy as they mourn.

Naroditsky is survived by his family, his many students, and a global community of fans and friends who were inspired by his love of the game, his clarity of explanation and his warm personal presence. He will be remembered not only for his achievements on the board, but for the joy and inspiration he brought to many.

By Legacy News Staff

(Image: Daniel Naroditsky via Facebook)

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5 hours ago

Francis Levi Kaklauskas posted to the memorial.

Earlier today

Suzannah Beth Troy posted to the memorial.

Earlier today

Petra posted to the memorial.

10 Entries

Francis Levi Kaklauskas

5 hours ago

A great man

Suzannah Beth Troy

Earlier today

May Daniel´s memory be a Blessing. Daniel was someone I watched on social media and the purity, goodness of his soul, his generosity and grace was always shining through, even when he was joking around with other chess influencers, also his friends. He touched so many lives and I hope something will be set up to honor his memory and continue his legacy of education. I and others I am sure would like to make a contribute. Prayers.

Petra

Earlier today

Mein aufrichtiges Mitgefühl für die Familie und Freunde. Es ist unfassbar und vollkommen surreal.

Timur Aliyev

Earlier today

I have known and followed Danya since we played at a World Open tournament when he was only 10-11 years old. I have watched many of his streams and commentaries. This feels like a personal loss.

Jeffrey Episcopo

Earlier today

He will be missed greatly, and remembered not only as a chess player, but a pillar of good character, inspiration, and humor for the chess community.

Bryan P Duong

Earlier today

RIP Sensei Danya. We all love you

Mak

Earlier today

I´m so sorry for the loss of this talented young man. May the God of Comfort be with you during this difficult time.

RB

Earlier today

Such a brilliant chess player whose career started at a very early age and he continued rise to become one of the best. So very sorry, prayers and condolences to the Naroditsky family. May God be with you in your time of loss.

Servian

Earlier today

Rest in peace, GM Daniel Naroditsky. Your brilliance, kindness, and passion for the game will never be forgotten.

Anastasia Giannatos

Yesterday

My heart aches for the loss of Daniel Naroditsky. He wasn´t just a chess genius - he was a beautiful human being, full of warmth, kindness, and wisdom beyond his years. To his family and loved ones, please accept my deepest sympathy. Daniel´s light will live on in every heart he touched and every student he inspired.
Giannatos family

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Sign Daniel Naroditsky's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

5 hours ago

Francis Levi Kaklauskas posted to the memorial.

Earlier today

Suzannah Beth Troy posted to the memorial.

Earlier today

Petra posted to the memorial.