TL;DR
- Dalian University expelled Li Xinshi for ‘improper behavior’ after her encounter with former CS:GO pro Zeus
- Zeus posted private videos on Telegram showing intimate moments, triggering widespread public outrage
- Mistranslation issues created false narratives about ‘easy girl’ comments
- The incident highlights serious privacy and cultural sensitivity issues in international esports
- Both parties faced severe consequences with ongoing debates about accountability
Games and Esports Articles CS 2
Dalian University of Technology made the drastic decision to expel student Li Xinshi, citing the “negative societal impact of her conduct” as justification. The disciplinary action stemmed from her December 16, 2024 encounter with retired CS:GO professional Danylo “Zeus” Teslenko, which gained notoriety after Chinese social media users circulated the university’s official notice across X platform.

According to Article 30, Paragraph 6 of the “Regulations on the Management of Students in Ordinary Institutions of Higher Education” and Article 19, Paragraph 6 of the “Regulations on Disciplinary Punishment for Students of Dalian University of Technology”, it is proposed to impose the punishment of expulsion from the school.
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S1mple replies to Zeus’s criticism of his Austin Major play: “Can you stop talking nonsense?”
The relationship between 21-year-old Li Xingshi and the former NAVI captain became publicly exposed when Zeus uploaded multiple videos and photographs to his Telegram channel. Among the content was footage showing her completely unclothed, while other clips depicted her wearing merely a towel. Throughout these recordings, the ex-professional offers compliments using terms like “baby,” discusses her apparent affection toward him, and engages in seemingly nonsensical commentary.
Li demonstrates limited English proficiency throughout the videos, utilizing basic expressions such as “hello,” “Thank you,” and “yes.” She displays awareness of the filming process, frequently making eye contact with the camera and actively participating with it. One sequence captures her sleeping, though this was recorded separately from the previously mentioned content and she remained covered. The controversial material was subsequently deleted from the channel.
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Multiple factors contributed to the widespread public condemnation of this situation. Supporters expressed shock at Zeus’s decision to share private recordings publicly. Chinese social media accounts additionally revealed that Li reportedly maintained a romantic relationship with another individual during this period. Many also operated under the mistaken belief that Zeus remained married, though evidence suggests this represents a misunderstanding. Examination of his biographical information and news coverage indicates he currently has no spouse, though previous marriage remains possible. He fathers a daughter named Kristina, born in 2011. Update: Zeus clarified he was neither married nor involved in committed relationships during the incident. He additionally stated unawareness regarding Li’s existing relationship status.
Zeus’s attendance at the Shanghai Major in mid-December involved additional controversial incidents beyond this particular situation. While participating in the tournament, the former professional recounted an experience where he lost $150 attempting to arrange a Tinder meeting. He frequently appeared potentially intoxicated or under substance influence during the competition, repeatedly joking about “showing his buttocks” – humor that appeared multiple times within his Telegram communications.
Following his return to Bali, his current residence, Zeus conducted a live stream featuring five female participants. Throughout this broadcast, he engaged in inappropriate conduct including explicit commentary, simulated sexual gestures, and subsequent claims that he was “merely joking.”

Significant translation inaccuracies appear to have exacerbated the Li Xinshi controversy. Chinese online discussions alleged that Zeus potentially wrote or uttered the phrase “easy girl” during interactions, which numerous individuals interpreted as offensive toward Chinese women collectively. While most content related to the incident has been deleted, thorough examination of remaining available material reveals no evidence of this specific expression.
However, one recording commences with him embracing the student while stating in Russian: “It’s simple, guys. Why this girl… [she kisses his cheek]. Why does this girl like me so much?” Contextual understanding and vocal intonation clearly indicate absence of derogatory intent. Nevertheless, the opening statement potentially underwent automated translation resulting in interpretations like “it’s easy.”
Update, July 13: Prominent Chinese journalist Hu Xijin published a article on Weibo addressing these circumstances. He reiterated presumed misunderstandings concerning “easily accessible women” and involvement with married men. The media professional believes the student warrants criticism yet declines to assign primary responsibility to her, even proposing the educational institution reconsider her expulsion. He criticized Zeus for publishing private footage and urged government authorities to prohibit the former competitor from entering China.
Update, July 13: Zeus already addressed the developments on July 13. He maintains that no damage occurred and expresses regret that Li Xingshi faced expulsion and became subjected to public humiliation. Comprehensive reaction available through subsequent link.
Zeus on scandal with Chinese girl: “We did nothing wrong. I feel genuinely sorry for her”
Update, July 13: Zeus provided additional clarification, emphasizing the absence of derogatory context within his posts. However, he demonstrates incomplete honesty regarding certain specifics or lacks recollection of them. He expressed willingness to “provide assistance to the student in some capacity,” given appropriate opportunity.
Six months ago, I posted several videos on Telegram with a girl I met in Shanghai. The clips showed our faces, but featured no intimate or demeaning content. At that point, it was just a moment in my life. I didn’t think that would impact someone’s private life. I later learned that the girl was in a relationship and that she faced hate. I’m truly sorry that it turned out this way.
As soon as I realized that the situation was serious, I deleted the videos. I didn’t mean to cause harm, and I didn’t do it on purpose. I’m not hiding or excusing myself, I speak honestly.
I also want to note: I wasn’t married, I didn’t have a girlfriend. All the rumors about my “family” or “wife” aren’t real. I ask you to stop the hate. We all make mistakes. I have learned from this. I want to move on with respect to everyone who got involved. Let’s close this topic. If there’s any opportunity to help this girl, I’d be happy to do that.
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Professional Insight: This incident underscores critical issues surrounding digital privacy boundaries in international esports contexts. The power differential between established professionals and fans creates inherent vulnerability that demands heightened ethical consideration. Content creators must recognize that international travel doesn’t negate responsibility for respectful conduct across cultural boundaries. The university’s response highlights institutional concerns about reputation management, though questions remain about proportionality of disciplinary measures.
Action Checklist
- Establish clear digital privacy boundaries before international travel
- Review and understand local cultural norms and legal frameworks
- Implement consent verification protocols for all recorded content
- Develop crisis response plan for potential international incidents
No reproduction without permission:Game Guides » Zeus slept with Chinese girl at Shanghai Major. She was expelled from university for “improper behavior” Analyzing the Zeus-Li Xinshi scandal: Privacy violations, cultural misunderstandings, and institutional consequences in esports
