Thiago “Tinowns” Sartori, a name synonymous with Brazilian League of Legends and the celebrated mid laner for LOUD, has announced he is taking a pause from his illustrious career. The news, shared during a recent LTA Sul broadcast, marks a significant moment for the CBLOL scene, as Tinowns is arguably the last active player from the region`s foundational professional era (2012-2013).
After dedicating 12 years to competitive LoL, Tinowns revealed his decision stems from a decline in the intense motivation and dedication that fueled his remarkable longevity. Recent performance dips, including LOUD`s earlier than expected exits from the 2nd split of CBLOL 2024 (4th place) and the LTA Sul splits (3rd and 4th/5th), seem to have coincided with this feeling.
The Personal Promise and Shifting Motivation
Tinowns spoke candidly about a personal promise he made years ago: to step away when he felt he could no longer commit at the highest level. He acknowledged recent community observations about his reduced activity, such as less time spent in solo queue, which fans often see as a barometer for a pro player`s `grindset`.
“I had made a promise to myself that whenever I felt I no longer had the same effort, the same will to win, to train, which are things that have always moved me to continue competing, evolving, I would take a break,” Tinowns explained. He added that he felt this lack of drive had set in over the past year. For him, this pause is a necessary moment for self-reflection and exploring new paths, potentially reigniting his passion for the game or competition in general.
A Legacy Forged Over 12 Years
Tinowns` career statistics and accolades speak volumes. A six-time CBLOL champion, he holds the distinction of being the only player from the inaugural Brazilian pro LoL generation still competing at the top level until this announcement. His recent tenure at LOUD saw him secure an unprecedented four consecutive CBLOL titles (2022.2, 2023.1, 2023.2, and 2024.1). His journey began with a championship win with KaBuM! Esports in 2014 and included a notable return to glory with paiN Gaming in 2021 after a seven-year drought. Across 590 professional games, his consistent performance and numerous assists highlight not just individual skill but also significant team impact.
“I am very proud of the journey from the beginning to the end,” Tinowns reflected. “I went through everything; I went to Worlds, I fell to the Circuitão [the second division], I came back, I won the CBLOL, I played with incredible players, I played with bad teams, with good teams… I`ve lived through everything.” He finds it impossible to pick just one standout moment, emphasizing that the entire trajectory fills him with pride.
Pause or Retirement? The Future Remains Open
While Tinowns framed his announcement as a “pause,” he was open about the possibility that it could become a permanent departure from professional play. “There`s a chance I won`t come back,” he admitted candidly. However, his passion for competitive gaming isn`t necessarily extinguished. He hinted at the possibility of exploring other game titles, following the path of other successful cross-game pros, and sees “many doors opening.” His immediate focus, however, is on stepping back and taking the time needed to decide his next move.
A Well-Deserved Break from the Grind
Twelve years is an eternity in esports. The life of a professional player involves constant practice, strategic analysis, team house living, and the relentless pressure of competition. It`s a routine that consumes every aspect of life. “At the moment, I`m feeling very peaceful at home, on vacation,” Tinowns said with a hint of relief. “I think it`s a well-deserved break after 12 years in this routine, which, people might not understand, but it is tiring.” He described the intensity: “You come home, play more LoL, think LoL, eat LoL.” He confessed feeling “a bit relieved” from this demanding cycle, finding peace after such a long and intense period. “I don`t even know how I lasted this long,” he quipped, but was happy knowing he approached those 12 years with passion and dedication.
The Distance to the World Stage
Tinowns` pause also reignites discussion about the state of Brazilian LoL, particularly the significant performance gap between the CBLOL and top international leagues. With other veteran players like DyNquedo also stepping away, the challenge of competing globally is a frequent topic.
“Everyone thinks a lot about it,” Tinowns said regarding the international gap, “but I think the real shock is when you go abroad and have a routine with the teams there and compete against them in the championship itself. [The barrier] exists, it`s a fact.” He acknowledged the widely perceived reality that the Brazilian region is currently among the weakest in Riot`s official ecosystem. “With the players we have here in Brazil, seeing the teams from abroad, it`s a miracle for us to make history, to beat a Chinese, European team, whatever, tier 1, tier 2. It`s a barrier that has always been difficult.”
Yet, despite the daunting reality, Tinowns expressed enduring hope for the region`s future on the international stage. “I believe in it a lot, especially me, who is a very hopeful guy, I`ve always believed,” he stated, recalling his own seven-year gap between his first and second CBLOL titles as a personal example of persistence paying off. He urged current and future Brazilian players to maintain this hopeful mindset, believing that one day, an international breakthrough is possible. “In my mind, it will work out, it will happen someday.”
As Tinowns steps back, his legacy as a pioneer, champion, and resilient competitor is secure. While the future of his playing career remains open, this break is well-earned after over a decade shaping the landscape of Brazilian League of Legends.
