Blizzard has received a lot of attention this past week after Heartstone player Ng 'Blitzchung' Wai Chung was banned for showing support for Hong Kong protesters in a post-match interview, but since then Blizzard has issued another statement reducing Blitzchung's ban to six months (down from 12) and reinstating his prize money.
Blitzchung himself has now talked about the decision in a TwitLonger post, saying that he's "grateful" they reconsidered.
"I told media that I knew I might have penalty or consequence for my act, because I understand that my act could take the conversation away from the purpose of the event. In the future, I will be more careful on that and express my opinions or show my support to Hong Kong on my personal platforms."
"For tournament prizing, I quoted what Blizzard said on the official website, they mention that I played fair in the tournament and they believe I should receive my prizing. This is the part I really appreciate, Blizzard also said they understand for some this is not about the prize, but perhaps for others it is disrespectful to even discuss it. People from Blizzard had explained this to me through a phone call and I really appreciate that and I accept their decision on this part."
That said, Blitzchung doesn't necessarily agree with the suspension. Despite being reduced from 12 to six months, he still thinks "six months is still quite a lot for me", and that he hopes Blizzard reconsiders about the two casters involved, who were removed following the match.
As for whether we can expect to see him competing in the future, he has "no idea on that yet", and adds that he's taking this time to relax and decide if he's going to rejoin the competitive Hearthstone scene.
Will you miss Blitzchung?