SlasheR Bids Farewell to Call of Duty Competitive Scene

Austin Liddicoat, known widely as Austin ‘SlasheR’ Liddicoat, has officially announced his retirement from the competitive Call of Duty esports scene. This announcement marks the end of an illustrious career that has spanned over a decade. SlasheR disclosed the news through a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that his decision was finalized over the holiday break, which delayed the release of a more comprehensive farewell video.

“Over the holiday break, I have made one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever had to make,” SlasheR wrote. “I’m officially retiring from competitive Call of Duty… As of late, the game and the current CDL format doesn’t inspire the same level of excitement I once had for playing competitive COD.” Despite stepping away from the competitive scene, SlasheR expressed his desire to remain involved in the Call of Duty community, though his future role remains uncertain.

A Storied Call of Duty Career

SlasheR is celebrated as one of the most consistent main assault rifle players in the history of Call of Duty. He gained prominence during the 2010s, most notably winning the Call of Duty World League (CWL) Championship in 2016. His team secured a hefty prize of $800,000 (~£630,000). Throughout his career, SlasheR achieved numerous podium finishes, including victories at CWL London 2019, CWL Anaheim 2018, and CDL Major wins in 2022 and 2023. More recently, he continued to compete in the 2024 and 2025 seasons before deciding to retire from professional competition.

SlasheR Praised in the Esports Scene

After the announcement, tributes from the esports community poured in. Carolina Royal Ravens, a team SlasheR was part of, posted a message invoking Marvel’s Thanos, stating, “The hardest choices require the strongest wills.” They continued, “We wish Austin farewell as he decided to step away from the game to hang up the sticks. One of the most storied ARs in CoD history with a legacy that will always live on.”

In his farewell message, SlasheR expressed gratitude to his teammates, competitors, fans, friends, and family for their support and understanding the sacrifices necessary to compete at the highest level. “We created memories and friendships that will last a lifetime,” he reflected. With his retirement, the Call of Duty scene sees the departure of another long-standing figure, highlighting the evolution of the competitive landscape since SlasheR first emerged.