CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – A Charlotte chess phenomenon died unexpectedly at just 29 years old, his club announced on Monday.
Daniel Naroditsky, a grandmaster at the fast-growing Charlotte Chess Center, was one of the top-ranked players in the world and had a massive following.
It was not immediately clear what caused Naroditsky’s death.
“We ask for privacy for Daniel’s family during this extremely difficult time,” the Chess Center wrote in part. “Let us honor Daniel by remembering his passion for chess and the inspiration he brought to us all.”
Daniel Naroditsky(Courtesy: Charlotte Chess Center)
About Naroditsky
As of October 2025, Naroditsky was ranked as the No. 150 chess player in the world, and No. 17 in the United States.
We had previously reported on Naroditsky, as his daring, blindfolded win earlier this year went viral online. The clip posted on Friday, July 11, had garnered over millions of views, showcasing Naroditsky putting his skills to the test against a very popular and well-known player.
“Daniel was a talented chess player, educator, and cherished member of the chess community,” the Chess Center wrote. “He was also a loving son, brother, and loyal friend.”
Daniel Naroditsky’s blindfolded chess match(Courtesy: Charlotte Chess Club)
During the game of Bullet (a fast-paced game of chess), Naroditsky defeated phenom Anna Cramling … and he couldn’t see a thing.
“Queen C-7. Rook D-8. Queen B-8. Knight D-4,” Naroditsky commanded, blindfolded.
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By using his mind with the hands of another player, Naroditsky achieved what may be considered impossible.
“What’s my time?” Naroditsky said, immediately after winning the match.
He won it in less than 60 seconds.
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