In a shocking development, Astralis superstar and AWPer Nicolai "device" Reedtz announced, that he will be absent from the Shanghai Major RMR event and any potential participation in the Major itself, should the team qualify. He seeks to return in 2025.
The Dane has stated that he must take time off due to the recurrence of stress-related health challenges, which have previously impacted his career.
device is out for the rest of the year!
Nicolai "device" Reedtz announced his absence via Twitter/X. This is a substantial setback for Astralis.
In his stead, Alexander "br0" Bro, who was initially benched in September, following the addition of Casper "cadiaN" Møller, will rejoin the active roster temporarily.
Meanwhile, cadiaN will take on the primary AWPing role, adding it to his responsibilities as the team’s in game leader. This change presents an uphill battle for Astralis, with device’s absence pushing them into underdog status in a competitive European RMR B group. Without their star AWPer, Astralis’ chances of making it to the Shanghai Major have significantly diminished.
device’s decision to step back serves as a sobering reminder of the mental health challenges that have affected many players in the world of esports. This is not the first time device has faced such an issue.
In 2022, while signed with Ninjas in Pyjamas, he took an extended break to address similar health concerns, ultimately leading to a season-long absence.
PGL Stockholm 2021 was the last Major that device attended, and he has missed five in a row since: PGL Antwerp 2022 IEM Rio 2022 BLAST Paris 2023 PGL Copenhagen 2024 PW Shanghai 2024Before Antwerp, the Dane was on a perfect 16/16 record pic.twitter.com/KxvpWuEbHS
— HLTV.org (@HLTVorg) November 14, 2024
Following his eventual return, with Astralis, device seemed to have found stability and was putting up impressive performances, making this latest setback all the more unexpected.
The announcement has sparked concern and well-wishes across the CS community. device’s skill, consistency, and professionalism have made him a fan favorite for many years.
His health remains a priority to fans and teammates alike. As he focuses on recovery, the community rallies behind him, hoping to see the former 4 time Major champion back in top form for the 2025 season.
Sucks to see device forced to miss the major especially with Astralis playing wellFocus on your health guys it starts before symptoms show up(I am not saying he doesn't this is just for everyone)A little bit of exercise, drinking enough water and good sleep goes a long way
— Austin Abadir (@CooperCSGO) November 15, 2024
The Astralis roster will undoubtedly feel the impact of his absence at the RMR, with cadiaN tasked with both calling the shots as IGL and managing the AWP.
Although br0 also brings talent and energy to the team, the sudden roster changes could be too big of a challenge for Astralis, in a stacked RMR B group.
We wish device all the best on his journey to recovery and eagerly await his return to competitive play, hopefully with a refreshed mind and restored health, for the 2025 season.
What do you think? Can Astralis still qualify for the Major, despite not having device with them?
