TL;DR
- Uzi retired from professional League of Legends due to diabetes and chronic arm injuries
- Faker expressed shock and admiration in three emotional Twitter video messages
- Both players began careers in 2012 and faced each other in international competitions
- The retirement highlights esports athletes’ health challenges and career longevity issues
- Community response shows deep respect between gaming legends across regions
The esports community received sobering news when Jian “Uzi” Zi-Hao announced his departure from professional League of Legends competition. While his persistent health struggles made the decision somewhat anticipated, fans and fellow players alike felt the weight of losing one of the game’s most iconic figures.
Uzi’s physical challenges became public knowledge last year when he disclosed severe arm pain that prevented regular practice sessions with Royal Never Give Up. This condition significantly impacted his training regimen and competitive performance. The veteran marksman entered free agency status, creating speculation about potential team transfers or contract renewals. Ultimately, his retirement stemmed from a diabetes diagnosis that demanded immediate lifestyle changes and medical attention.
Though Uzi left open the possibility of returning should his health stabilize, the League of Legends competitive landscape now faces the absence of a legendary AD Carry whose mechanical skill and teamfight presence defined an era.
Following Uzi’s departure announcement, T1’s legendary mid laner Sang-hyeok “Faker” Lee shared heartfelt video messages expressing his admiration and disbelief. As another titan of the LoL competitive scene, Faker’s reaction carried significant weight within the global gaming community.
“His relentless work ethic made this news particularly difficult to accept,” Faker stated, highlighting the dedication that characterized Uzi’s approach to professional gaming.
Hello everyone, I’m T1 Faker. When I heard the news of Uzi’s retirement, speaking for myself, he’s been an excellent player who’s competed against me on the same stage for so many years. And at the same time, he’s also an extremely popular Chinese player [1/3] pic.twitter.com/pd77vbXGWx
— Linda???? (@iCrystalization) June 6, 2020
So when I heard the news of his retirement, I was actually reluctant to believe it. Uzi has always been worked very hard, so it’s a great pity that he’s now retired.
At the same time, there are many fans in China who like Uzi, the fans will also be sad hearing these news [2/3] pic.twitter.com/X88bIsmetG
— Linda???? (@iCrystalization) June 6, 2020
Faker described experiencing profound emotional weight when contemplating Uzi’s exit from competitive play. He encouraged Uzi’s supporters to maintain their backing regardless of his career decisions.
My heart feels rather heavy when I think about that.
Although Uzi’s career has ended, I believe that from now on he’ll grow very well in the days to come. I hope Uzi’s fans can always continue to support him. Uzi fighting! [3/3] pic.twitter.com/vTCwDq9aYA
— Linda???? (@iCrystalization) June 6, 2020
As two of the most respected and skilled competitors in League of Legends history, Uzi and Faker’s numerous competitive encounters created a narrative of mutual admiration. Both professionals entered the scene around 2012, creating parallel career trajectories across eight years of international tournament appearances.
Their 2019 Worlds meeting provided one of the most memorable interactions, where they exchanged compliments about each other’s distinctive playstyles. Beyond mechanical skill, they discovered shared perspectives on multiple aspects of professional gaming and competition philosophy.
Uzi’s retirement underscores critical health considerations within professional gaming. The combination of repetitive stress injuries and metabolic conditions like diabetes presents unique challenges for esports athletes. Teams increasingly recognize the importance of comprehensive wellness programs that address both physical and mental health needs.
The gaming industry faces growing responsibility to implement sustainable practice schedules, ergonomic equipment standards, and nutritional guidance. Professional organizations must balance competitive demands with long-term player wellbeing, implementing preventive care measures before career-threatening conditions develop.
Action Checklist
- Advocate for standardized health screening in esports organizations
- Implement ergonomic assessments for gaming setups
- Develop balanced practice schedules incorporating breaks and physical activity
- Create mental health resources specific to competitive gaming pressures
No reproduction without permission：Game Guides Online » Faker sends heartfelt message to Uzi after retirement announcement Faker's emotional tribute to Uzi's retirement reveals esports legends' mutual respect and health challenges