Xyp9x dropped by Astralis in favor of Rookie

Astralis, the Danish esports organization, has announced the transfer of Andreas "Xyp9x" Højsleth to Astralis Talent. This move comes after Alexander "Altekz" Givskov's promotion to the main team. The decision was made after Astralis missed out on qualifying for the upcoming BLAST.tv Paris Major. Astralis posted a lackluster 1-3 record during their time at the French Major's Europe RMR. Suffering an 0-2 defeat to Ninjas in Pyjamas in the elimination game. This will force the roster to watch back-to-back Majors from the sidelines.

Xyp9x and Astralis:

Xyp9x has been a part of Astralis since the organization was founded in January 2016. His overall tenure with the roster dates back to 2014. He joined the Dignitas banner alongside teammates Nicolai "device" Reedtz and Peter "dupreeh" Rasmussen. Xyp9x's most fruitful stint came during the aforementioned six-year partnership with Astralis. Whom he helped win four Major championships — three of which were consecutive victories. Alongside 15 other Big Event trophies, including IEM Katowice 2017 and 2019.

Despite Astralis' recent lackluster performances, Xyp9x's transfer to the academy roster "for the coming period" is expected to further elevate their developmental team's play. Astralis Talent has been going from strength to strength. Picking up victories at domestic events like SDTV Invitational and POWER Ligaen. As well as taking down Copenhagen Flames and GamerLegion en route to a first-place finish at CCT North Europe Series 4.

The Transfer:

Kasper Hvidt, Astralis' Director of Sports, commented on the transfer. He said, "Throughout 2023, Altekz has been performing on a consistent, high level, and he is currently one of the most talented players in his role. As such, and in continuation of the first team coaches' desire to work with him in the coming period, we have had a good dialogue with Xyp9x, who has agreed to help the talent team."

Xyp9x added his part via a press release on Astralis' website, saying, "I am still super disappointed that we missed the qualification for the Major... an organization like Astralis must participate in all Majors and ultimately be able to compete for the title. When we miss this opportunity for the second time in a row, it's clear we have to look at all options."

He continued, "There are many talented players on the Talent team, and I look forward to helping them. I hope, of course, that my experience and knowledge from countless large international tournaments can lift the players even [more]." Astralis will play with the following roster for now: Lukas "gla1ve" Rossander, Benjamin "blameF" Bremer, Nicolai "device" Reedtz, Christian "Buzz" Andersen, and Alexander "Altekz" Givskov. Peter "casle" Ardenskjold will continue to serve as coach.

Meanwhile, Astralis Talent will play with Kristoffer "Kristou" Aamand, Patrick "Patti" Larsen, Alexander "br0" Bro, Mikkel "MistR" Thomsen, and Andreas "Xyp9x" Højsleth. Mathias "R0nic" Pinholt will continue to serve as coach.

Conclusion:

Astralis has made significant changes to their roster following their poor performance at the French Major's Europe RMR. Missing out on qualifying for the upcoming BLAST.tv Paris Major. Xyp9x's transfer to the academy roster is expected to help elevate the developmental team's