Benkai Joins Global Esports for 2024 Season
Popular competitive gamer Benedict “Benkai” Tan has found a new opportunity after stepping away from Paper Rex’s starting lineup for VALORANT Champions 2023. He will be joining Global Esports for the upcoming season, becoming the first piece in the organization’s effort to rebuild their roster and improve their performance after a disappointing year.
Global Esports had a challenging season, struggling with subpar performances that included an early exit at the 2023 LOCK//IN tournament, an eighth-place finish in the Pacific regular season, and failure to qualify for the Last Chance Qualifier. As a result, the organization decided to part ways with the entire starting lineup in September, signaling a complete overhaul of their roster.
Meanwhile, Benkai will have the opportunity to return to the competitive stage after being benched just before Masters Tokyo. His last match was on April 15, and he was eventually replaced in the roster by players like something, f0rsakeN, mindfreak, Jinggg, and d4v4i.
As a veteran player, the 26-year-old Benkai brings his experience and leadership to Global Esports, as well as his fun and lighthearted attitude that has endeared him to fans worldwide. Benkai is known for his on-stage antics, from wearing a dinosaur costume to providing insightful commentary as an analyst.
However, Global Esports will need to build a successful team around Benkai in the coming months as they prepare for the new year. They must assemble a squad capable of competing with top teams like Paper Rex, DRX, and T1 to have a chance in international tournaments.