The Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO)/CS2 community is mourning the loss of one of North America's rising stars.
David "Cynic" Polster, a talented young player for BOSS, has sadly passed away according to an announcement made by the team's coach Tommy “Axed” Ryan.
He was only 23 years old.
The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed at the time of this writing.
Cynic's sudden passing comes as a shock, cutting short the career of a player who looked poised to become a Tier 1 talent.
The American rifler first emerged in 2018 with RiFt Nation, grinding his way up the ranks of North America's competitive CS:GO scene.
Over the years, Cynic built his reputation as an aggressive fragger and adept clutcher across stints with various teams.
Most recently, he had joined BOSS and helped the squad qualify for the upcoming PGL Major Copenhagen 2024 Americas Regional Major Rankings (RMR) event.
Cynic's contributions were integral in cementing BOSS as one of the region's top teams.
Now, his team and the NA scene as a whole have lost an exceptional player and rising star.
Understandably, the outpouring of grief from fans and figures in the CS:GO community has been immense.
Cynic's former team, Nouns Esports, shared heartfelt words about his passion and leadership.
Despite his young age, Cynic uplifted those around him and approached competition with an unmatched drive to be the best.
While Cynic's passing leaves a void in the NA CS:GO scene, the tributes speak to the vibrant spirit and kindness he brought.
The esports world can be thankful for the limited time it had with such a talented, dedicated player.
Cynic's loved ones and former teammates will sorely miss him, but his imprint on NA CS:GO will remain.