VALORANT: TSM officially exit Riot Games' FPS after five years
A major milestone in North American esports has concluded as TSM officially steps away from Riot Games’ VALORANT after five years of competition. On Monday, November 3rd, the organization confirmed their departure, marking the end of an era that began in 2020.
Five Years of Competitive History
TSM was one of the first major esports teams to join VALORANT when the game launched. Throughout their involvement, they contributed to the growth of the scene by participating in pioneering efforts such as introducing one of the earliest Game Changers rosters and supporting co-streaming initiatives within the community.
“Our ambition has always been to compete at the highest level,” TSM stated in their farewell message.
In recent seasons, however, the team struggled to return to its former glory. Competing in VALORANT’s Tier 2 Challengers League since 2023, TSM continued pushing toward a spot in the game’s top-tier competition—VCT—but fell short.
Close but Not Enough
During the 2024 season, TSM finished second in the Challenger Playoffs, earning a chance at promotion through the Ascension Tournament. Yet, despite a promising start, the team was eliminated in the Group Stage, finishing sixth overall and losing their opportunity to advance to the VCT.
TSM returned for the 2025 season with renewed focus and the same goal in mind, but their journey ultimately concluded without reaching the premier level they had aimed for since their VALORANT debut.
Author’s Summary
TSM’s exit from VALORANT marks the end of a defining five-year era, symbolizing both early innovation and unfulfilled aspirations within Riot’s competitive FPS scene.