Cheating Scandal Rocks Thailand’s Arena of Valor Team
Weeks after Thailand’s women’s Arena of Valor team withdrew from the 33rd SEA Games following a cheating controversy, new details have emerged following a public confession by a professional player.
The incident dates back to December 15, when Thailand lost 0–3 to Vietnam in the upper bracket final of the tournament. Shortly afterwards, the Thailand Esports Federation disqualified Warasin Naraphat, known as Tokyogurl, for violating the Esports Technical Manual, citing third-party involvement during a match, an offence that carries the maximum penalty of disqualification.
Despite Thailand leading Laos 1–0 in the lower bracket final the next day, the federation withdrew the entire women’s team from contention for the gold medal match.
Public Confession by Boyfriend
Initially, Tokyogurl denied wrongdoing, claiming she had played herself before falling ill. However, on January 2, Thai esports player Kong, known in-game as Cheerio and Tokyogurl’s boyfriend, posted a TikTok video confessing that he had played in her place.
“I want to come out and clarify the issues that have happened in the past during the SEA Games period and other competitions,” Cheerio said. “I admit that it’s true.” He described the decision as selfish, apologised to fans, officials, and teammates, and accepted full responsibility for the consequences.
Tokyogurl also issued a brief apology on Facebook, stating: “I’m sorry.”
Sanctions and Fallout
Following the revelation:
- Garena banned Tokyogurl from all Arena of Valor tournaments from December 16, 2025.
- Her club, TALON, terminated her contract.
- RoV Esports organisers imposed a lifetime ban.
Santi Lothong, President of the Asian Electronic Sports Federation and head of Thailand’s esports association, is reportedly pursuing legal action against both players. Regional media have described the case as one of the most serious scandals in Thai esports history.
