Southeast Asian DOTA 2 powerhouse T1 pulled off a shocker when it announced the release of mid laner Karl “Karl” Baldovino and hard carry Kim “Gabbi” Santos ahead of The International (TI) 11 regional qualifiers.
A former TNC Pro Team player, Gabbi joined the squad early this year before the DPC (DOTA Pro Circuit) Tour 1 Regional Final, replacing Thai DOTA star Nuengnara “23savage” Teeramahanon.
On the other hand, Karl has been with the organization since 2020.
“All good things come to an end. Today, we announce the departure of Karl and Gabbi from our DOTA2 roster,” T1 said in an announcement.
“Thank you for everything you have done and we wish them all the best for their future.”
T1 has only accumulated just 273 DPC points in the 2021-2022 season thus far and recently turned in a heartbreaking 3-4 run at the DPC Southeast Asia Tour 3 Division 1 that left them out of the PGL Arlington Major.
Still, despite T1’s recent setbacks, Karl played quite well and has shown steady improvement throughout the years.
His release disappointed T1 DOTA fans while there was not much empathy for Gabbi, who is notoriously known for being inconsistent in competitive play.
“You said Karl is the most skilled player but you kicked him. I expected Gabbi, but Karl? WTF? Why did you kick Karl? You better get someone better. Otherwise, you will be a laughingstock again,” a fan ranted on social media.