Chess Star Aronian Appeals to Kramnik for Reconciliation Amidst Defamation Suit

In a public display of emotion and concern, chess grandmaster Levon Aronian has penned an open letter to his friend and former World Champion Vladimir Kramnik, appealing for reconciliation after Kramnik initiated a defamation lawsuit that has stirred controversy within the chess community.

Vladimir Kramnik in a file photo

"Dear Vladimir Kramnik, forgive me for addressing you publicly," Aronian wrote, his tone marked by respect rather than animosity. The letter follows Kramnik's decision to file a civil defamation case in Geneva against Chess.com, news outlet Chessdom, and Czech GM David Navara, alleging defamation related to accusations of cheating in online chess.

Aronian's letter serves as both a personal tribute and a call for peace. He acknowledged Kramnik's profound impact on his career, describing him as one of his "chess parents" and attributing much of his understanding of chess to the former World Champion.

He reflected on Kramnik’s formidable spirit, citing his victories against Garry Kasparov and Peter Leko, as well as his resilience during the "Toiletgate" controversy against Veselin Topalov.

However, Aronian did not avoid addressing what he perceives as a troubling shift in Kramnik's recent behavior. "You are fighting your own demons," he stated, recognizing the emotional strain of Kramnik's battle against perceived widespread cheating in online chess.

The letter comes after Kramnik suggested earlier this year that Navara had cheated, which led Navara to publish a letter detailing the severe impact of the accusations on his mental health. Kramnik responded by demanding legal action or silence, ultimately leading to the current lawsuit, a move that has been met with criticism from many within the chess world.

Grandmasters such as Pavel Eljanov have voiced their support for Navara, with Eljanov stating that "David is one of the most honest people in chess," a sentiment echoed by many others.

Aronian concluded his plea with a message of unity: "We are a family... let us start from a fresh page." In a chess world fractured by accusations and legal battles, Aronian's message offers hope that reconciliation is still achievable.