Home

Dota 2 has lost one of its most recognisable figures as Quinn “Quinn” Callahan has officially announced his retirement from professional play. The 26-year-old American mid-laner, best known for his time with Gaimin Gladiators, steps away after nearly a decade at the highest level, leaving behind a legacy of passion, success, and iconic moments.

Quinn shared the news in a heartfelt YouTube video, describing playing Dota 2 professionally as “an honour and a privilege.” He explained that after achieving his long-time goal of being the best mid player in the world during the 2023 season, the relentless grind of practice and competition had begun to take its toll.

“I had already proved I could be the best and proved that we could be the best,” Quinn said. “And so the fire to endure the misery and endure the countless hours and missing birthdays and weddings and spending time with family and friends… that stopped feeling worth it to me.”

From the NA Trenches to Global Glory

Quinn’s career is a classic tale of resilience. He first earned recognition in the so-called “NA trenches” with teams like Quincy Crew, where his emotional authenticity and fiery personality won him both loyal supporters and outspoken critics. In 2017, he got his big break with OpTic Gaming under TI5 champion Peter “ppd” Dager, marking the beginning of his rise on the global stage.

The defining chapter of his career came with Gaimin Gladiators. In 2023, Quinn and his teammates enjoyed a historic run, claiming the Lima Major, Berlin Major, and Bali Major in just four months. They went on to finish runner-up at The International 2023 (TI12) and again at ESL One Kuala Lumpur later that year, cementing themselves as the most dominant team in Dota 2 for much of the season.

That incredible year was also recognised individually, with Quinn nominated for Esports PC Player of the Year at the 2023 Esports Awards.

Quinn Dota 2 retirement

Image via Liquipedia.net

Wrestling With the Grind

Despite his achievements, Quinn admitted the sacrifices demanded by top-level Dota 2 eventually outweighed the rewards. Twelve-hour practice days, constant travel, and time away from family and friends led him to decide that 2025 would be his final season. Even so, he remained a competitor to the end, placing highly in tournaments such as PGL Wallachia Season 5, FISSURE Universe Episode 4, and BLAST Slam II this year.

Gratitude and Farewell

In his retirement video, Quinn took time to thank those who shaped his journey. He credited his parents for their unwavering support, gave shoutouts to early teammates and mentors from his Quincy Crew and OpTic Gaming days, and expressed deep gratitude to his Gaimin Gladiators teammates for their trust and camaraderie.

He also addressed fans directly, embracing both the love and criticism he received over the years, and nodding to his iconic “Clown Fiesta” meme.

“Thank you to the fans as well who have rooted for me or against me… it’s been an entertaining run and I hope you’ve enjoyed watching the Clown Fiesta as much as I’ve enjoyed being a part of it.”

What’s Next for Quinn

Though stepping away from competition, Quinn has no intention of leaving the game behind. He revealed plans to focus on talent work, streaming, and creating what he describes as “the complete guide to Dota.” His goal is to share pro-level insights not widely available to the public, covering everything from fundamental concepts to advanced strategies.

“I intend on keeping no secrets and talking about everything in the most detailed way I can… I intend it to be the complete guide to Dota,” he said.

With over $2 million in career earnings and three Major titles to his name, Quinn retires as one of the greatest players North America has ever produced and a mainstay of the global Dota 2 scene.

“It’s been an honour and a privilege. Goodbye. Thank you for all the good years and the bad. And I’ll see you around,” he signed off.