Thai esports player admits competing in girlfriend's place after her SEA Games disqualification

Weeks after Thailand’s women’s Arena of Valor team withdrew from the 33rd SEA Games following a cheating scandal, new details have emerged after a public confession by a professional player.

The controversy stems from a match on December 15, when Thailand lost 0–3 to Vietnam in the upper bracket final of the Arena of Valor competition.

Shortly afterwards, the Thailand Esports Federation confirmed that Warasin Naraphat, known as Tokyogurl, had been disqualified for breaching the Esports Technical Manual.

Officials cited violations, including 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 following day and still being in contention for a place in the gold medal match, the federation withdrew the entire women’s team from the tournament.

At the time, Tokyogurl denied any wrongdoing, stating that she had played herself before becoming unwell and being taken to the hospital.

That account was challenged on January 2, when Thai esports player Kong, known in-game as Cheerio and identified as Tokyogurl’s boyfriend, posted a TikTok video admitting 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 responsibility for the consequences.

“I humbly accept all criticism and the consequences that follow, without any excuses,” he added. Following the admission, Tokyogurl posted a brief apology on Facebook, writing: “I’m sorry.”

Publisher Garena banned Tokyogurl from all Arena of Valor tournaments from December 16, 2025. Her club, TALON, terminated her contract, while RoV Esports organisers imposed a lifetime ban.

According to reports, Santi Lothong, President of the Asian Electronic Sports Federation and head of Thailand’s esports association, is pursuing legal action against both players.

The case has been described by regional outlets as one of the most serious scandals in Thai esports history.