Korean skipper 'March' leaves TNC Predator

Behind Park, in white jacket, TNC Predator won the Chengdu Major.
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Korean DOTA 2 star Park Tae-Won has departed from Southeast Asian powerhouse TNC Predator.

The Filipino club confirmed the development on Monday.

"We would like to thank Park Tae-won (March) for his efforts in bringing the team closer to the apex of DOTA 2's competitive scene and with this, we are announcing his release from our official team roster," TNC Predator said in a statement.

The team then explained, "Unfortunately, the team has decided to go towards a different path to achieve our goals."

However, TNC Predator clarified that there was no bad blood between Park and the club.

"It is definitely not the end of our friendship," TNC Predator further stated.

Park affirmed it in a tweet later Monday.

"[I] had a great run [and] met amazing teammates and people. The best year I had in my long DOTA career. Thank you for everything TNC," Park said.

With Park, who eventually the captain role, and Australian Damien Chok joining the Filipino trio of Tims Randrup, Kim Villafuerte, and Armel Tabios, TNC Predator has had a banner 2019-20 season despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

TNC Predator finally got a top tier chip after ruling the Chengdu Major and later won ESL One Thailand as well.

"Through many ups and downs, our Captain March has proved his abilities to execute game winning strategies and correct judgments on the different aspect of the game for the team to fully realize its potential that will later become essential in winning the first major of the current DPC season. He never let the team down and innovated how the game was played during that era. Park Tae-won will always be a key mover for this team and we will always cherish the fruits of the hardwork our roster achieved," the team continued.

Despite the accolades, TNC Predator had a shock early exit from the BTS Pro Series, only settling for joint fifth place with fellow Filipino side Neon Esports.

TNC Predator, however, assured that it will bounce back even sans Park.

"We promise you that TNC Predator will rise again. The battle for being the top never ends!" TNC Predator vowed.

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