After experiencing a setback at the IEM Cologne tournament, NAVI player s1mple took a vacation to Latvia and attended a concert by Russian rapper Kizaru. Video footage recorded by fans showed s1mple dancing and enjoying the music and alcohol at the event.
In response to this, Ukrainian media criticized s1mple for not being able to separate himself from Russian culture, despite being the world’s best player and a prominent figure in the Ukrainian esports scene. As a public figure, his continued association with anything related to Russia can influence his fans, who might view him as a role model.
