Star Valorant Operator main Matthew “Yu” Wardell and TSM have announced the two sides are mutually parting ways.
Star Valorant Operator main Matthew "Yu" Wardell and TSM have announced the two sides are mutually parting ways.
In a shocking announcement, the face of TSM VALORANT is confirmed to not be making the trip with the team down to Austin, Texas. With the organization looking to make broad changes and restructures, the 23-year old Wardell decided to not relocate, leaving his future uncertain. The organization confirmed that the decision to part ways was solely based on Wardell staying in Canada.
“After this process is complete we will be moving the main team to Austin to better improve teamwork, set practice/worth ethic expectations, and reset the culture," said TSM's VP of Esports Dominic Kallas back in February 2022.
Wardell's Impact on TSM
The Canadian Operator main has been a mainstay in the Valorant scene and the de facto face of the TSM roster. Signed back during the beta, TSM experienced the highs of early success in a new game but also the difficulty of sustaining that success. Under Wardell's prowess, the team earned first place prizes at T1 x Nerd Street Gamers Showdown back in 2020, the FaZe Clan Invitational and most recently, VALORANT Champions Tour 2021: North America Stage 3 Challengers 2.
Furthermore, Wardell was one of the first marquee signings from a tier-one organization in the game's infancy. His early partnership with Yassine "Subroza" Taoufik became one of the most notable in Valorant. Aside from that, he proved time and time again that he can be one of the most dangerous players with Operator.
In fact, the numbers speak for themselves, as Wardell has put up a gaudy career ACS of 251 in competition. The Jett main recently switched over to Chamber. The move was made to accommodate Corey "corey" Nigra, who was added to the lineup to play Jett. Through all the rough patches in 2021, Wardell was consistently reliable for a team looking to rebuild.
The Future outlook
Looking ahead, there will be no shortage of claims for Wardell, when and if he hits free agency. As one of the most recognizable figures in the game, he will command a larger market than most free agents. As for TSM, the organization stays committed to building a championship roster and will continue forward despite this setback. Despite all this, there's plenty of mutual respect and love between both parties.
"Thanks for pulling me out of the gutter and giving me a brand new life. I will never forget that," said Wardell on twitter