TSM, a prominent name in North America’s esports community, has announced its departure from the VALORANT esports landscape, affirming that there are no intentions for a comeback in the near future.
Since entering the VALORANT competitive scene in 2020, TSM has experienced a journey filled with ambition, enthusiastic fan support, and numerous unforgettable moments over the past five years.
In their announcement shared on X (formerly known as Twitter), TSM expressed appreciation for Riot Games’ continuous efforts in enhancing the Tier 2 esports environment, thanking the fans and players who have supported them throughout their journey. «After half a decade in VALORANT, we have decided to exit the space without any immediate plans to return,» the organization stated.
When VALORANT was first gaining traction in the esports world in 2020, TSM quickly made its move. The organization was one of the first to establish a team, which captured the attention of fans with its vibrant and dynamic playstyle.
TSM’s aim in joining the professional scene of Riot’s shooter was not only to engage in competitive play but also to foster community involvement and nurture grassroots talent. Their vision transcended mere victories, as TSM also focused on co-streaming content that attracted more viewers, collaborating with popular creators like Myth to turn each match into a highlight for fans.
The organization maintained a principal team, while also investing in an academy squad and establishing one of the first Game Changers teams in the region. Throughout the years, TSM encountered the highs and lows of the Challengers circuit, striving to maintain a strong competitive presence while dreaming of breaking into tier one.
Despite not securing a franchise spot, TSM’s persistence led to significant progress. In 2025, their efforts culminated in a spot in the Ascension grand finals, a defining moment in TSM’s VALORANT history. The team had a strong performance in the Ascension, finishing as the runner-up and earning $22,000 from the prize pool. However, they faced a setback, losing 1-3 to ENVY, which meant they did not qualify for VCT Americas 2026.
Currently, TSM’s iconic black-and-white jerseys will no longer be seen in VCT competitions, but the memories of their early rivalry with 100Thieves will linger on. TSM’s withdrawal signifies a notable conclusion to an era in VALORANT esports.
