Leaf and His Fight Off the Server and On: G2’s Sentinel Returns for a Shot at Valorant Glory in 2025

The competitive Valorant scene got some much-needed good news recently when Nathan “leaf” Orf finally opened up about his mysterious health struggles that kept him away from G2 Esports for over seven weeks. After months of speculation from fans wondering where their favorite Sentinel main had disappeared to, Leaf’s candid explanation hits you right in the feels—and shows just how brutal chronic illness can be, even for elite esports athletes.

Leaf and His Comeback: G2’s Sentinel Returns Stronger Ahead of Valorant Champions

The Real Story Behind Leaf’s Absence

Let’s be honest here—when a top-tier Valorant pro suddenly vanishes from the competitive scene without much explanation, the rumor mill goes absolutely wild. Leaf’s absence from VCT Americas Stage 2 had fans scratching their heads and creating their own theories. But the reality was far more serious than anyone imagined.

In a heartfelt X post on August 23, Leaf revealed he’d been battling complications from not one, but multiple health conditions. The 22-year-old has been living with Crohn’s disease since childhood—a chronic inflammatory bowel condition that’s no joke to deal with. But after VCT Masters Toronto in June, things took a nasty turn when complications with ankylosing spondylitis and sacroiliitis kicked in.

For those not familiar with these medical terms (and honestly, why would you be unless you’re dealing with them?), ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, while sacroiliitis involves inflammation of the sacroiliac joints. Together with a Crohn’s flare-up, this created a perfect storm of pain that left Leaf struggling with basic activities like eating and drinking.
When Gaming Takes a Backseat to Health

The severity of Leaf’s condition becomes crystal clear when you realize he spent about two weeks in and out of hospitals. This wasn’t just a case of “feeling under the weather”—this was a legitimate medical crisis that required serious intervention. The fact that he experienced one of his worst flare-ups since he was nine years old really puts things into perspective.

What really gets you is how Leaf handled the whole situation. Despite being in obvious pain and dealing with exhaustion that would sideline most people permanently, he still felt the need to thank his fans for their overwhelming support. “I know a lot of people have DM’ed me on here/Discord and given support, and I’ve seen all of it,” he wrote. “Just wanted to say thank you, even if I didn’t take the time to respond.” That’s the kind of class act that makes you root for someone, you know?

 

Babybay Steps Up: The Ultimate Team Player Move

 

While leaf was fighting his health battles, former Counter-Strike legend turned content creator babybay stepped into the breach for G2. And let’s give credit where it’s due—babybay didn’t just fill a roster spot; he helped keep G2’s championship dreams alive.

The team managed to maintain their competitive edge throughout VCT Americas Stage 2, even making it to face Sentinels in the upper final on August 29. That’s not just testament to babybay’s skill (though the guy definitely still has it), but also to the team culture G2 has built. Leaf specifically shouted out his teammates and babybay for “keeping the team strong and making sure nobody takes G2 Valorant down undeservedly.”

It’s rare to see such seamless chemistry when a substitute steps in, especially at the highest level of competitive Valorant. Babybay’s performance during this period deserves its own recognition—the man proved that retirement from professional CS doesn’t mean you lose your competitive fire.
The Road to Champions: A 3peat Dream

Now that leaf is feeling better (knock on wood), his focus has shifted to what every competitive Valorant team is chasing: a shot at VCT Champions. The timing couldn’t be better, honestly. G2 has been gaining momentum throughout 2025, and having their entire lineup healthy and prepared could mean the difference between a strong run and a memorable one.

Leaf’s comment of attempting a “3peat” demonstrates how hungry this club remains. They aren’t satisfied with their past success; they want to leave a history as one of the finest Valorant teams ever formed. And, really, when you have a guy who is willing to battle chronic disease in order to compete at the greatest level, that is the type of mental toughness that wins championships.

What Does This Mean for Competitive Valorant

Leaf’s health journey highlights something the esports world doesn’t talk about enough: professional gamers are human beings dealing with real-world problems. The romanticized view of pro gaming often glosses over the fact that these athletes can face the same health challenges as anyone else, sometimes even more so due to the physical demands of extended practice sessions and travel schedules.

G2’s handling of this scenario, which prioritized leaf health over short-term competitive gains, sets a good example for other firms. It’s refreshing to see a team that actually cares for their players as individuals, not simply as game assets.

Looking ahead: The championship chase continues.

With Leaf back in play and Babybay possibly continuing in some capacity through early Champions rounds, G2 Valorant is poised to make a significant impact in the remaining events. The question isn’t whether leaf can return to form—chronic illness management is all about finding that balance and working with what your body gives you day by day.

What’s exciting is seeing how this experience might fuel the team’s championship run.
Overcoming adversity may make for some of the best stories in professional gaming, and Leaf’s trip return to the server is shaping up to be just that.

The Valorant competition scene benefits from players like Leaf—not merely for his sentinel abilities (though those smoke plays are the chef’s kiss), but also for the character he gives to the game. His openness about his health difficulties and thanks to his support system exemplify the type of person you want to represent your favorite esport.

As VCT Champions approaches, keep an eye on G2. They have something spectacular in the works, and Leaf’s comeback could serve as the trigger for something truly memorable in competitive Valorant history.

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