TSM Officially Leaves Riot Games' VALORANT After Five Years
TSM, a major North American esports organization, announced on November 3rd their exit from competitive VALORANT, ending a five-year involvement with Riot Games' FPS title.
TSM’s Impact on VALORANT
Entering VALORANT in 2020 as one of the first big teams, TSM played a pioneering role in the scene. Their initiatives included signing one of the earliest Game Changers rosters and promoting co-streaming.
"TSM was one of the first major organizations to enter VALORANT back in 2020 and helped pioneer several initiatives within the scene — from signing one of the earliest Game Changers rosters to promoting co-streaming."
Competitive Journey and Challenges
- TSM's goal was always to compete at the highest level.
- Since 2023, they competed in the Challengers League, VALORANT’s Tier 2 circuit.
- Despite inconsistent results, TSM aimed to qualify for the VCT, VALORANT’s premier league.
- In 2024, after finishing second in the Challenger Playoffs, they reached the Ascension Tournament for a chance to promote to the VCT.
- They finished 6th in the Group Stage, failing to advance in their first promotion attempt.
- The organization returned in 2025 with continued aspirations to reach the VCT.
"TSM came close, more than once. In 2024, after finishing second in the Challenger Playoffs, the team qualified for the Ascension Tournament, where promotion to the VCT was on the line."
Continuing Efforts
Although TSM struggled to achieve consistent success in recent years, their determination to compete among the best never faded until their departure was announced.
Author’s Summary
After five influential years helping to shape VALORANT’s competitive scene, TSM leaves with a legacy of pioneering efforts despite falling short of their ultimate competitive goals.