Cloud9 Exit ESL Pro League, SAW Steps In: A Strategic Shift in the 2024 Season
Cloud9’s abrupt withdrawal from the ESL Pro League Season 19 has sent ripples through the esports community. Scheduled for April 23 to May 12, the competition faced a significant shake-up when Cloud9, grappling with a key player’s exit and an incomplete roster, stepped back, paving the way for the surging SAW team to join the fray.
The departure of Denis “electroNic” Sharipov to Virtus.pro left Cloud9 scrambling with only four players, insufficient to meet the demands of the intense competition. In a strategic move, ESL turned to SAW to fill the void. SAW, a team on an upward trajectory since early 2024, has impressed with their robust performances across several tournaments.
SAW’s recent achievements include a remarkable reverse-sweep at the Europe RMR, leading to a berth at the PGL Major Copenhagen, and a dominant run through the Spring Showdown to secure a spot in the BLAST Spring Final. Furthermore, they clinched the top spot in ESL Challenger League 47 with a flawless 5-0 series record. These accolades have propelled them to their highest world ranking of No. 16, underscoring their rising prominence in the competitive scene.
SAW’s invitation to the Pro League, therefore, isn’t just a replacement; it’s a recognition of their consistent performance and potential impact on the league’s dynamics. This strategic inclusion could reshape the competitive landscape of the tournament, offering fans a fresh narrative to follow as the season progresses.
As the ESL Pro League embarks on this adjusted Journey, spectators and analysts alike will keenly watch how SAW leverages this opportunity to ascend further in the global rankings, and whether they can convert this unexpected entry into a landmark success.
Why was SAW chosen as the replacement for Cloud9?
SAW was invited based on their current ranking in the ESL global standings, making them the next eligible team after Cloud9 and Spirit.
Will the ESL Pro League be re-seeded due to this change?
No, the tournament will maintain its seeding as the replacement happened close to the start date, adhering to ESL’s replacement protocols.
What impact might this have on the tournament’s outcome?
SAW’s entry introduces a new competitive element, potentially altering the dynamics and outcomes of the matches, adding an unpredictable twist to the season.
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