Two months after his apology, Rookie unfollowed Xiaoyu late at night, seemingly to show loyalty to his Korean girlfriend

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After the LPL entered the loser-final stage, there are a few days of rest, and the remaining three teams are intensively preparing to achieve good results. During this period, one of Rookie's actions sparked widespread discussion.

Two months after his apology, Rookie unfollowed Xiaoyu on Weibo late at night.

Rookie unfollows Xiaoyu, seemingly to show loyalty

At the end of May, Rookie's Korean girlfriend updated her social media with affectionate photos—bouquets, couple wine glasses, beautifully presented double portions of food, and so on—exactly one month after her previous post.

A few days ago, viewers noticed that Rookie logged into Weibo late at night.

Once logged in, Rookie performed only one action: unfollowing Xiaoyu. People have been analyzing this move. After the breakup incident, Xiaoyu had unfollowed Rookie long ago, but Rookie had not. Now suddenly unfollowing at this time is most likely a gesture of loyalty to his current girlfriend in Korea.

It's highly probable that his current girlfriend asked him to log in and unfollow. Originally, this wasn't a big deal, but coming during a break in the schedule and being so belated, it makes him look even more ridiculous. He couldn't bear to unfollow before, or maybe he was too guilty to do it, and now his girlfriend forced him to finally cut ties completely with his ex.

In any case, regarding the breakup, Rookie's public image has completely collapsed, with no dignity left whatsoever.

Analysis of Rookie's career: a return to the pro scene is not ruled out

Since IG suffered a crushing defeat in the Knight's Path during the second stage and fell into the Phoenix Group, many are discussing the possibility of Rookie's return. Currently, there are two disadvantages. First, in terms of public opinion outside the game, Rookie's championship halo is no longer protecting him. If he returns, he will undoubtedly face negative labels.

Second, regarding IG's performance, after falling into the Phoenix Group, it's uncertain whether they can fight their way back in the third stage. As a champion player, playing in the Phoenix Group is somewhat degrading, and if they fail to return, his reputation will only worsen.

These two factors limit Rookie's comeback. On the other hand, as a veteran player, although Rookie has accumulated considerable wealth, his lifestyle doesn't seem to allow him financial freedom. He can't keep playing around forever. He either needs to transition into a new way of making money or return to the pro scene and continue competing.

Editor

If Rookie wants to make money as a streamer like other retired players, his reputation is still very important. In that case, one good path for him is to return to the pro scene, deliver strong performances, improve his public image, and still earn a decent income.

The real problem for veterans: retirement means unemployment

In summary, Rookie still has the ability to earn money in the LPL. This is the core reason many veteran players continue competing. Unlike the past, when retired players could easily earn good money as streamers, now retirement likely means unemployment—a very realistic issue.

As for Rookie's shortcomings, his cheating isn't particularly severe compared to other pro players who have had scandals. It's just that his previous image was so positive that it creates a huge contrast now.

Personally, I believe that once people stop talking about this matter, Rookie can return. As long as he performs well enough, he can largely turn his reputation around. There have been many similar cases before—Xiaohu, Knight, and even in the hosting scene with Luo Xin and Jide. Over time, people won't keep dwelling on it.

In conclusion, Rookie must face a very practical decision that will determine the direction of his future life. Generally speaking, LPL veterans keep playing until no team wants them anymore, accumulating enough wealth before considering anything else.