Valorant pro TenTen fired for being racist towards Indians

NORTHEPTION has fired Valorant professional player TenTen for being racist in a competitive game.

Japanese Valorant organization NORTHEPTION has permanently terminated their star player TenTen for mistaking Indonesian pro Saibani “fl1pzjder” Rahmad as Indian and then being blatantly racist against Indian players multiple times in a single game. 

Racism, unfortunately, is a common issue in Valorant. Despite Riot’s effort to curb the toxicity, players squeeze in their subtly racist remarks in every other ranked match. It’s much easier for a regular player to dodge Riot’s ban hammer, but pro players are easier to sift out. 

Why was TenTen fired? 

This time, TenTen has been caught being publicly racist against Rex Regum Qeon’s fl1pzjder during a ranked game. He has now been fired from the organization for disrespectful remarks. 

The feud started when fl1pzjder and TenTen got into a light argument over kills. When fl1pzjder responded to TenTen, he misidentified him as Indian, saying, “F—ing Indian.”

The Indonesian player looked confused but instantly called him out for being racist. That is not all. TenTen continued his racist remarks in Valorant chat. 

@r1o_a1
such good professionalism from a player on your roster, now he would play the victim card saying he doesn't speak english blabla pic.twitter.com/2CiLXtV40Y

— mimosa-kun the allrounder (@m1mosa_prophet) July 4, 2023

The screenshots quickly spread throughout the Indian Valorant community, who’s unfortunately accustomed to racist remarks from random Valorant players. But disrespect coming from a notable pro player didn’t sit right with the broader community as it sets a precedent. 

Not less than 24 hours later, the organization fired the racist player. TenTen respected their decision and publicly apologized to the fans. 

“I sincerely apologize to those who were offended by my inappropriate remarks. As a professional player and as a person, I deeply regret that I made unforgivable remarks. I also take the punishment from the team very seriously. I’m so sorry,” TenTen said. 

TenTen was an asset to his team, averaging high ratings during Valorant Challengers League Japan Split One and Two. He joined in November 2022 and has remained a pivotal part of the NORTHEPTION’s starting roster.