In a surprising twist of fate, TSM, the USA-based esports powerhouse, has officially declared its exit from the North American Dota 2 competitive, concurrently disbanding its entire roster. The organization’s stint in the Dota 2 scene, which commenced in 2022, was relatively short-lived, spanning just under two years.
At the onset of 2022, TSM strategically entered the Dota 2 Pro Circuit NA by acquiring the underrated Team Undying, supplemented by the inclusion of seasoned coach Rasmus “Misery” Filipsen. The team demonstrated commendable progress, consistently securing top-two positions throughout the DPC NA 2022 and securing the runner-up spot in the ESL One Stockholm Major 2022.
In late 2022, the North American esports giant TSM underwent a significant roster shuffle, introducing Matthew “Whitemon” Filemon as the top position 5 player from Indonesia and British newcomer Matthew “Ari” Walker. Despite facing challenges in every Major event throughout 2023, the team showcased dominance in DPC NA 2023 Tour 1 and 2, establishing a noteworthy rivalry with Shopify Rebellion and securing a second-place finish in the BetBoom Dacha 2023 tournament. TSM concluded its 2023 campaign with a 9th-12th place finish at The International 2023 in Seattle.
Amidst the shock announcement of TSM’s departure from the North American Dota 2 scene, ESL confirmed the team’s participation in the upcoming ESL One Kuala Lumpur tournament. The squad will return to its former identity, Team Undying, maintaining a nearly unchanged lineup, with the exception of Ari, who has joined OG in Western Europe. The team, now comprised of Whitemon, Enzo “Timado” Gianoli, Jonathan “Bryle” Santos, Ilyas “kasane” Gainullin, and coach-turned-player David “MoonMeander” Tan, is set to compete in the forthcoming event.
This decision raises questions about TSM’s future in competitive Dota 2, prompting speculation on whether the organization is exiting the scene entirely or considering a strategic shift similar to other North American counterparts, such as Evil Geniuses, which moved its operations to the South American scene last year. Given TSM’s recent financial challenges, notably stemming from a failed partnership with cryptocurrency exchange FTX, there is a big possibility that the organization is contemplating measures to mitigate losses.
