GO1's Esports World Cup Participation in Doubt After Heatstroke

Japanese star and reigning Esports World Cup champion for Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, GO1, has seen his participation at this year's event thrown into doubt following a medical incident.

The player, who is already in Paris, France, suffered heatstroke while traveling to the competition venue, leaving him in severe distress.

He later released a statement on X, saying that he is currently discussing his participation with Esports World Cup organizers while his condition is being assessed.

He wrote:

"I am truly sorry for causing everyone worry and inconvenience due to my poor health this time.

"Although I had prepared by bringing heatstroke prevention goods from Japan, an air conditioning failure in the shuttle bus from the venue caused the interior temperature to reach 39 degrees, resulting in my developing heatstroke.

"I have now recovered to the point where I can eat and walk, but I still have lingering fatigue, so I am currently discussing my participation in the tournament with the EWC organizers.

"I offer my heartfelt gratitude to Kim Debu-san, who devotedly cared for me on-site, along with all the other Japanese players; and to Ryan Hart-san and NYChrisG-san, who provided interpretation and explanations in English.

"Regarding future participation in EWC, I will provide an update once I assess my recovery."

Some other players have also spoken up, having been there. One of those was ChrisG, who said on X that there was no air conditioning in the shuttle taking the players to the venue and that it was really hot inside. 

GO1 previously suffered heatstroke in Japan last month and was forced to withdraw from Evo as a result.

His opening match is scheduled to take place in a few hours against fellow Japanese player Abao. GO1 was drawn into Group BB alongside Fenritti, Abao, Lancer, Poongko, Neku, Basher, and SCORE.

It remains to be seen whether GO1 will recover in time to compete at the tournament, where he is widely regarded as one of the favorites.