The VCT Masters Tokyo Event Sets the Stage for a Record-Breaking Shorty Kill Count
The VCT Masters Tokyo event concluded its group stage on June 13, and if the current trend continues, it has the potential to break the record for the most Shorty kills at an international VALORANT event. This would serve as a fitting tribute to one of the game’s rising stars, Vitality’s Karel “Twisten” Ašenbrener, who tragically passed away.
According to RIB.gg, a total of 24 kills with the Shorty were recorded after the 10 matches (25 maps) played during the group stage. NRG’s Sam “s0m” Oh and Attacking Soul Esports’ Wang “Monk” Haoyu currently lead the pack with four kills each. However, s0m has the potential to improve his count in the playoffs.
The current record to beat was set at VCT LOCK//IN earlier this year, with 58 Shorty kills registered in the 32-team single-elimination bracket. It was during LOCK//IN that the late Twisten pledged to donate money to charity for every successful Shorty kill, and bravely opened up about his mental health struggles to the community.
Related: VCT Masters Tokyo 2023: VALORANT scores, schedule, and format
Following his untimely death, the VALORANT community has come together to pay tribute. Pro players, coaches, broadcast talent, organizations, and owners have all pledged to continue the tradition of donating money to charity for each Shorty kill in Twisten’s memory. This show of solidarity has extended beyond international events, with members of M80 and The Guard promising to donate for each Shorty kill during the NA Challenger playoffs and even staging a Shorty joust during the grand finals match on the ropes of Fracture.
In order to set a new record for an international tournament, players at VCT Masters Tokyo will need to achieve 35 more Shorty kills. With 14 matches and a minimum of 30 maps to be played, this record is well within reach.
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