Xyp9x sent to Astralis Academy roster to make space for Altekz

When we all heard that Astralis had promoted Alexander “Altekz” Givskov to their main CS:GO team, there was no doubt that one of the five players in the lineup would be sacrificed. However, very few of us expected it would be one of the most experienced players in the squad, Andreas “Xyp9x” Højsleth.

On the other hand, it is not that Xyp9x will leave the organization or be benched, but that he has been sent to the Astralis academy team. Another move that, if we look at it objectively, is excellent because who better than a four-time Major winner within a team to develop new talents. However, we will have to wait and see how Xyp9x will perform in this new environment surrounded by very young players.

Astralis announces that Altekz will take the place of Xyp9x

Just as they announced the promotion of Altekz to the main team, Astralis has now announced that the sacrificed player will be none other than Xyp9x. These moves came to the organization after the team missed the second consecutive Major.

Yesterday, the organization announced that Altekz would join the CS:GO main team as the sixth player. However, if the goal is to develop and allow the promising player, it is obvious that there would be some sacrifices.

Xyp9x off to a bad start in 2023

Four months into the 2023 season in the CS:GO competitive scene, it is worth noting that Xyp9x has the lowest Rating according to HLTV (0.97) after playing 59 maps. However, the decision was somewhat tense, as the team’s IGL and veteran, Lukas “gla1ve” Rossander, also has a 0.97 Rating.

On the other hand, Altekz was one of the fundamental pillars of Astralis Talent in each of the tournaments and official matches they played. The 19-year-old had a rating of 1.15 in 109 maps played so far this year. This is an extremely big step the young Dane is taking in his career, as the Astralis crest and jersey carry much weight. There is no doubt about that. However, the fact of making this move only confirms to us that Astralis has full confidence in the player’s performance.

Xyp9x: “I am a team player.”

In Astralis’ official statement, there is also a section where Xyp9x gives some statements. The veteran winner of four CS:GO Majors states that he is very disappointed not to be able to qualify for the Major. He also mentions that he will do whatever it takes to help the organization return to the top.

On the other hand, on Twitter, the player stated that everyone must be “united” to turn the situation around.

On the Astralis blog, Xyp9x says that everyone who knows him in the scene knows he is a team player. He further claims that even if he is not on the main team, he will always do what he can to help the organization that has been his home for many years. Finally, the player claims that there is a lot of talent in the Astralis academy team, so he hopes to be able to help them with everything they need.

Header: Viola Schuldner | ESL