Is esports' only future being shut down? The International Olympic Committee announces the suspension of all related activities. (Part Two)

Esports fans and players value the esports Olympics so much, perhaps because they see it as a perfect ending. Indeed, it has been very successful so far, with each S-level event attracting a lot of attention. A single game can easily surpass the popularity of a World Cup. No matter how far it spreads globally, videos of it constantly appear on social media. For true sports enthusiasts, however, it is a "commercial sport," a way to make money electronically.

As long as esports is not recognized by the International Olympic Committee, countless parents will continue to criticize the pursuit of esports dreams as ruining their future, arguing that excessive gaming leads to detachment from reality, a lack of understanding of life's hardships, and a failure to even earn money—how can one talk about dreams? This is reality. Games poison minds, waste studies, and result in poor grades. Even setting up a stall or selling sausages seems more promising than pursuing an esports dream.

Retired athletes need a dignified way out.

While talent scouts are important, the esports industry has always prioritized youth training and minors. Even if someone is exceptionally talented in the game, if their academic performance is poor, who would immediately think of having them drop out of school and try their luck in esports? It's almost impossible. Even in 2026, the social status and standing of esports players haven't improved; they're still inferior to a football star. Fans idolize them, and those with a clear head think they're just internet celebrities. Competing is one thing, but during the off-season, aren't they just like streamers, interacting with viewers and generating traffic?

Whether the esports ecosystem is mature or not, many players basically have no decent way out after retirement. It should be said that it is a one-way street. They bet their youth on being professional players, while their parents hope that they can learn to make coffee, or at least be practical. Unless they are famous, they may be able to switch to being "content creators" or coaches. Some are forced to start live streaming to sell goods. Without the title of player, they seem ashamed. But the traffic they have accumulated, and the low-priced products from some third- or fourth-tier brands in their stores, bring in at least 800,000 yuan in revenue per month.

Looking further ahead, players should create their own brands. They need to understand not only the game itself, but also the industry, marketing, and business. Finding the right niche is crucial for transformation; failure could mean ending up as an internet cafe manager. While esports' inclusion in the Olympics certainly faces many challenges, gaining widespread social acceptance opens up a broader future than many imagine.

Image source: Internet