G2 Parts Ways with Women’s Counter-Strike Squad

In a move that caught many by surprise, G2 Esports has decided to dissolve its women’s Counter-Strike team, G2 Oya, only nine months post its inception.

G2’s introduction of G2 Oya in March 2023 was met with enthusiasm and anticipation from the gaming community. This marked G2 Esports’ initial venture into the realm of women’s Counter-Strike. Notably, the team was anchored by the seasoned duo Zainab “zAAz” Turkie and Julia “juliano” Kiran, both of whom had previously transitioned to competing in Valorant. Their return to Counter-Strike was heralded as a significant moment for women in esports.

Review: Challenges in ESL Impact Season 3

Despite the high hopes and fanfare surrounding their debut, G2 Oya faced formidable challenges during ESL Impact Season 3. Their performance was not up to the mark, culminating in a 5th-6th position within the European segment. In an attempt to recalibrate and improve their standings, G2 Oya underwent a roster change ahead of the subsequent season. The team opted to bring in Anna “ramziiN” Ramsing, replacing Oleksandra “manka” Kruspe. However, the alteration failed to yield the desired results, as they once again finished in the 5th-6th position.

Today we say goodbye to G2 Oya.

One last HOOOYYAHHHH for the team 🫡 pic.twitter.com/ycwYB6aFd8

— G2 CS (@G2CSGO) December 19, 2023

The ESL Impact Circuit was established to provide a conducive environment for women passionate about Counter-Strike. The platform underscores meritocracy, emphasizing skills over gender biases. It offers a spectrum of competitive opportunities, ranging from monthly Cash Cups to two comprehensive online league seasons, coupled with standalone tournaments that witness enthusiastic crowds.

G2 Oya leaves ESL Impact

Reacting to G2 Esports’ decision, juliano took to Twitter to confirm the team’s exit from ESL Impact. While she remains committed to her esports journey, she expressed a desire to collaborate with her team’s core members in future endeavors. Simultaneously, Coach Jimmy “Jumpy” Berndtsson conveyed his contemplation regarding the subsequent steps in his coaching career.

Thank you for everything ❤️

I will of course continue playing
I’m a free agent 🤓 https://t.co/yeH1KbZMCu

— zAAz (@ZainabTurkie) December 19, 2023

The cessation of G2’s involvement in women’s Counter-Strike is undeniably disconcerting for the European esports landscape. Many within the community harbor hopes that this hiatus is merely a temporary setback rather than a precursor to broader cost-cutting initiatives or organizational shifts.

For context, the G2 Oya roster included the talents of Zainab “zAAz” Turkie, Julia “juliano” Kiran, Anastasia “kr4sy” Khlobystina, Anna “ramziiN” Ramsing, and Alexandra “kyossa” Tykhonska, with Jimmy “Jumpy” Berndtsson serving as the coach.