Ahead of his appearance at Worlds 2024, FlyQuest’s Gabriël ‘Bwipo’ Rau has opened up about his recent struggles with mental health and some controversial on-stream comments. While there may have been some validity in his criticisms of other pro players, the way he expressed himself was uncharacteristic. He has since sought help from a doctor and received a diagnosis, though he hasn’t yet shared specific details about it.
The pressure of being a pro player takes a toll both physically and mentally, and Bwipo has been candid about the challenges he’s faced. His biggest struggle, he says, has been honesty—both with himself and with those he cares about. He attributes some of his progress to the support he’s received from others, including LS, who reached out out of concern and helped him recognize the need for professional help. Bwipo is grateful for this intervention, as it led him to a deeper understanding of his own mental health.
Through this experience, Bwipo has learned to pay closer attention to his well-being—monitoring his diet, sleep, and behavior. He acknowledges that while it’s easy to make excuses for one’s actions, real growth comes from taking responsibility. His diagnosis of ADHD has played a role in his impulsiveness, and he’s working on improving how he makes decisions for both himself and those around him.
FlyQuest
In his time on FlyQuest, Bwipo has adjusted his role within the team, allowing younger players to take more of the spotlight. This shift reflects a return to his roots as a player who thrives in a supportive role, enabling others to carry the game. He’s comfortable being a lesser focus on the team, knowing that others, like Massu and Quad, can step up and deliver. He feels that this year has allowed him to rediscover his unique style of gameplay—decisive, confident, and often unconventional.
Reflecting on his past with Team Liquid, Bwipo admits that trying to fit into a different role took away from his identity as a player. He lost sight of his own strengths, feeling pressured to adopt the playstyles of others. However, working with FlyQuest has helped him regain his confidence, allowing him to play his way, even when taking risks doesn’t always pay off. The team understands his role, and that support has been crucial for his development.
Mentail Strain
Despite the mental strain of being a pro player, Bwipo remains committed to his career. His ultimate goal is to win Worlds, and he feels a responsibility to the people who have supported him, including those who have made sacrifices for his professional growth. While streaming is something he enjoys, it doesn’t offer the same fulfillment as competing on the big stage. He finds streaming to be more mentally exhausting, as it requires constant engagement, which can sometimes lead to frustration or misunderstanding.
For now, Bwipo’s focus is on Worlds. He doesn’t want to take attention away from the event or make it about himself. After the tournament, he plans to discuss his experiences and reflections in more detail. Until then, he’s content to celebrate the achievements of all the players at Worlds and focus on the competition at hand.
