apEX has highlighted deep systemic issues within the professional Team Vitality circuit during a recent ESL podcast. The veteran in-game leader argued that hosting events during official player breaks damages the ecosystem and forces rosters to constantly grind for VRS points.

“Player break. Yes, it is… Whatever the player break is today. For me, it is a huge problem. That is why we need a players’ union,” apEX said.

He pointed out scheduling disparities, noting that Team Liquid began practicing and playing roughly two weeks earlier than Team Vitality ahead of the current season. This lack of synchronized downtime prevents athletes from recovering properly.

“The mere fact that a tournament is held at this moment, in my opinion, does not affect the health of Counter-Strike very well. Because again, you will chase VRS. So what is the goal now? We do not take breaks. We play in all tournaments in a row, it should not be like that,” he added.

While players have previously explored forming a representative body, apEX explained that time constraints and leadership remain the primary hurdles. He suggested that an experienced former professional could step in to manage the organization effectively.