The Valorant Challengers League 2024 South Asia, a pivotal tier 2 tournament, showcases the top eight teams vying for a coveted spot in the Ascension event. The competition is fierce, split into two phases: the Group Stage and the Playoffs, where teams accumulate points and strive for the Pacific Ascension slot of the season.
In an exclusive conversation with Sportskeeda Esports' Sneh Jadhav, Revenant Esports' player skillZ shared a poignant reflection on his tumultuous 2023:
"2023 was the hardest year of my life."
Enduring Personal Challenges: skillZ's Journey Through 2023
Long recognized as a standout in South Asia's Valorant esports scene, skillZ embarked on his professional journey with Global Esports in October 2020, quickly rising as a top player in the region. However, the transition to a franchise model in 2023 reshuffled the regional talent, with many players finding new teams as the only South Asian organization, Global Esports, expanded its roster to include Southeast Asian players.
Despite his established career, skillZ faced a significant hiatus in 2023, marked by personal hardships rather than competitive play. He did not participate in the Valorant Challengers League that year, instead appearing only in the OFF//SEASON event, Convergence, and a Showmatch. The year brought profound personal challenges, as skillZ explained:
"2023 was by far the hardest year of my life, my mother got diagnosed with dementia and I had to take care of her and the house including the financial part and the household. But it helped me grow into a responsible person."
A New Chapter with Revenant Esports
By late 2023, skillZ was ready to return to professional play, choosing to join Revenant Esports for the upcoming Valorant Challengers League 2024 season. His decision was influenced by conversations with Rossi, confirming his readiness to compete at the highest levels again. This new chapter signifies not only a return to the game but also an opportunity to strive for excellence with a top team currently favored to secure the Pacific Ascension slot for the season.
skillZ's resilience and personal growth through adversity have not only shaped him as an individual but also promise to redefine his impact on the competitive scene as he and Revenant Esports aim for the pinnacle of success in the Valorant Challengers League 2024.
