TSM Departs Dota 2 Esports Scene Again

TSM has announced its departure from the North American Dota 2 scene, following exits from the LCS in League of Legends and Rainbow Six Siege earlier this year.

This decision follows a series of notable exits from other esports leagues, including League of Legends’ LCS and Rainbow Six Siege. TSM entered the Dota 2 arena nearly two years ago, acquiring Team Undying in January 2022, featuring players Enzo “Timado” Gianoi, Jonathan “Bryle” De Guia, Gainullin “kasane” Ilyas, Matthew “Ari” Walker, and Matthew “Whitemon” Filemon.

TSM ends the Dota era

The organization entered the Dota 2 scene almost two years ago by signing Team Undying in January 2022. The team had some success during their time competing, winning the DPC NA 2021-2022 Tour One Regional Final and placing second at the ESL One Stockholm Major in May 2022. However, their more recent results included a disappointing performance in Dota 2’s 2023 The International.

Although rumors circulated that the roster signing was made to please then-sponsors FTX, the roster was kept after FTX’s departure. However, TSM’s axing of the roster exactly one year later suggests that these rumors may have been true. Former TSM coach, MoonMeander, seemed to hint at the upheaval, posting the words “RIP NADota” on Nov. 29.

Update for #ESLOne Kuala Lumpur. @TSM has released their Dota 2 team; they will continue to compete as Team Undying. There are no changes to the roster. pic.twitter.com/jT3LIZqmeR

— ESL Dota2 (@ESLDota2) December 5, 2023

Following TSM’s departure from the region, ESL One announced that for ESL One Kuala Lumpur, the roster will continue to compete as Team Undying. No players are leaving the roster for the time being.

TSM’s farewell to Dota 2 and the uncertain future

TSM has told fans to “look forward to news about our next steps in Dota,” with no indication yet of what that may be. Some fans are speculating that TSM may be moving to a new region, possibly Europe or Southeast Asia, as it intends to do in League. TSM sold its LCS slot for $10 million in September with the goal of finding success elsewhere.

We’ll see you at the #LCS Arena in 2024. pic.twitter.com/9ZZAUmMEBA

— Shopify Rebellion (@ShopifyRebels) September 20, 2023

The org’s constant reshuffling has left some fans in doubt about the team’s survival. Considered one of the biggest esports organizations in NA with an immense fan base, some are sharing complaints that their favorite esports team is “dying.” Regardless of whether this is the case or not, TSM’s announcement has certainly cast doubts in the minds of fans regarding the once-great NA team and its future.