Andy Dinh

Early Career and Founding TSM

Andy Dinh began playing League of Legends during its closed beta in 2008. He quickly became a prominent figure, often playing with his brother Dan Dinh. In September 2009, they formed one of the game's first competitive teams, All or Nothing, during the beta period. Around this same time, Andy founded the SoloMid website, an early hub for League of Legends content that also served as his team's platform.

After All or Nothing disbanded in early 2011, Dinh founded Team SoloMid, taking on the role of mid laner and team captain. The new organization found quick success, placing third at the inaugural Season 1 World Championship later that year and earning $10,000. TSM established itself as a dominant North American force with victories at events like Major League Gaming's Providence tournament.

Competitive Peak and Retirement

The start of League of Legends Season 2 presented challenges for TSM, including losses to the formidable Russian team Moscow 5. A roster change followed, with Marcus 'Dyrus' Hill joining the squad. With the new lineup, TSM returned to form, winning multiple North American events throughout the spring and summer of 2012.

Their regional success earned them a spot at the Season 2 World Championship in Los Angeles. There, they were defeated by Azubu Frost and finished in the 5th-8th place bracket, winning $75,000. Andy Dinh retired from professional play at the end of 2013 to focus on managing TSM. He made one brief return to the mid lane in 2014 to substitute for a player dealing with visa issues.

Building an Esports Empire

After retiring, Dinh shifted his full attention to growing Team SoloMid as a business. Under his leadership as owner and CEO, TSM expanded from its roots as a top League of Legends team into a multi-game esports organization. The brand became one of the most recognizable in North American esports, known for its consistent presence in the League Championship Series (LCS).

The organization also found success in other titles, notably winning its first Dota 2 tournament. Dinh's journey from a top-ranked teenage player to the CEO of a major company made him a central and often controversial figure in the industry's growth.

Allegations and Riot Games Investigation

Andy Dinh's management style has been a source of significant controversy. Over many years, numerous former TSM employees and players accused him of workplace bullying and verbal abuse. Videos surfaced showing Dinh yelling at players, and allegations dated back as early as 2011.

In late 2021, following renewed complaints, both TSM and Riot Games launched investigations. Riot Games concluded its investigation in 2022, finding Dinh guilty of disparaging and bullying behavior. As a result, TSM was fined $75,000, and Dinh was ordered to complete sensitivity and executive training programs.

Legacy and Impact

Andy Dinh had a significant impact on esports. As Reginald the player, he was a pioneer during League of Legends' early competitive years, helping to establish team structures and competitive norms. His aggressive playstyle and leadership as TSM's first mid laner and captain set a template for the organization.

As Reginald the CEO, he built TSM into a major esports organization, demonstrating the potential for player-founded groups to become lasting businesses. However, what he is remembered for is complex, intertwined with both his foundational role in building the scene and the serious workplace culture issues that emerged under his leadership. He remains one of the most influential and debated figures in North American esports history.