A piece of very devastating news coming from the Valorant community as Team Vitality’s Valorant player Karel “Twisten” Ašenbrener has passed away at the very young age of 19.
In a deeply saddening announcement, Team Vitality shared the heartbreaking news of their talented player’s unexpected passing through their social media channels. The organization extended its heartfelt sympathies to Twisten’s loved ones during this extremely challenging period. Recognizing the immense impact of this news on the entire team, they decided to suspend all activities for the rest of the day. The shocking loss has profoundly affected the gaming community, serving as a poignant reminder of how fragile life can be.
Rest in Peace Karel ❤️ pic.twitter.com/F3JjY9aCef
— Team Vitality 🐝 (@TeamVitality) June 7, 2023
Twisten was suffering from depression
The cause of Twisten’s death remains unconfirmed, but Team Vitality’s Assistant Coach, Harry “Gorilla” Mepham, suggests that the pro player took his own life. Team Vitality’s message on mental health supports this possibility. In February 2023, Twisten shared his struggle with depression and self-harm, disclosing a past hospitalization. Despite expressing improvement, his tragic passing has brought attention to these challenges once again.
A marvelous journey
Twisten emerged as a VALORANT pro in 2020, joining Kings of Sosnovka and swiftly gaining recognition for his exceptional abilities. The turning point arrived in 2022 when he competed in his inaugural A-tier match during VCT 2022: EMEA Stage 1 Challengers, marking a significant milestone in his career. In the latest VCT 2023: EMEA League, Twisten participated in his final professional match against FUT Esports, marking his second appearance in an S-tier tournament.
The news of Twisten’s untimely demise has reverberated throughout the gaming community, leaving fans and fellow players stunned. Social media has become a platform for expressing sorrow and paying tribute to this gifted young player. Many have hailed him as a rising star, praising his immense potential and exemplary sportsmanship.
Valorant communities pay tribute
Fnatic expressed their profound devastation and sorrow upon learning about Karel’s tragic passing. The organization extended their deepest condolences and sympathies to his family, friends, fans, and everyone at Team Vitality.
We are beyond devastated and saddened to hear the news of Karel’s passing and wish to send our condolences and sympathies to his family, friends, fans, as well as everyone at Team Vitality.
Rest In Peace, Twisten ❤️ https://t.co/kepRwssvPJ
— FNATIC (@FNATIC) June 7, 2023
Our condolences, love & strength to all those close to him.
Rest in Peace ❤️
— HEROIC (@heroicgg) June 7, 2023
Scream expressed his sadness upon hearing the news, emphasizing his thoughts and condolences for Twisten’s family. He emphasized the seriousness of mental pain and depression, urging others to openly discuss and seek help if they ever experience such struggles.
So sad about this news, all my thoughts with his family ❤️🙏🏽
Mental pain and depression is something to take very seriously, make sure to speak about it and seek help if you ever feel that.. https://t.co/PRNmKsL8a4
— KC ScreaM 🇲🇦 (@ScreaM_) June 7, 2023
Our condolences and love to everyone close to him, stay strong ❤️ Rest in peace Karel
— KRÜ Esports (@KRUesports) June 7, 2023
Lastly, as a united Fragster team, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Twisten’s loved ones and join in mourning his loss. May he rest in peace, knowing that his legacy will endure and inspire future generations. This tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of mental health, prompting us to prioritize open discussions and support for those facing similar challenges within the gaming community and beyond.
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