Twisten Valorant: In a heart-wrenching announcement, Team Vitality has confirmed the untimely passing of their talented pro player, Karel “Twisten” Ašenbrener, at the tender age of 19. Twisten, renowned for his exceptional skills as Team Vitality’s Jett in Valorant, captivated fans worldwide since joining the French organization’s Valorant team in November 2022. This devastating news serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of mental health within the realm of esports.
On June 7, Team Vitality took to social media to share the heartbreaking news of Twisten’s passing. The organization expressed their profound sadness and extended their condolences to his friends and family during this immensely challenging time. Team Vitality acknowledged the profound impact of this loss, vowing to halt all communication for the remainder of the day as a mark of respect.
While the exact cause of Twisten’s untimely demise remains undisclosed, Harry “Gorilla” Mepham, Assistant Coach for Team Vitality, alleged that the young prodigy had taken his own life. This claim is further reinforced by Team Vitality’s emphasis on mental health concerns within their statement, indicating the possible role mental health struggles may have played in this tragic event.
In a heartfelt tribute to his departed comrade, Gorilla expressed his overwhelming sorrow and described Twisten as not only a close friend but also a brother-like figure. The magnitude of grief and emptiness Gorilla feels cannot be put into words, testifying to the profound impact Twisten had on those around him.
In February 2023, Twisten courageously opened up about his personal battle with depression and self-harm, recounting a previous incident that resulted in his hospitalization. Nevertheless, he expressed optimism and gratitude, stating that with the support of his teammates, he was in a significantly better state mentally and physically. Twisten’s heartfelt words in a Twitlonger post conveyed his unwavering belief that the upcoming year would be a triumphant one for him and his team.
The loss of Twisten serves as a stark reminder of the genuine and significant impact mental health issues can have, even on individuals who may outwardly seem successful and accomplished. If you or someone you know is grappling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, remember that you are not alone. Reach out to a mental health professional, a helpline, or a trusted individual in your life. It is crucial to prioritize and address mental well-being, ensuring that no one suffers in silence.
As we mourn the untimely passing of Twisten, let his legacy encourage us to advocate for mental health awareness and support within the esports community and beyond.
