As mentioned in a previous article, the visa application of Melee pro-player, Leffen, was denied recently. He had applied for a P-1 visa, which allows sports players entry into the United States. However, the government did not consider Super Smash Bros. Melee a legitimate sport, much to the dismay of the community.
Fortunately, Team Solo Mid recently announced some good news: Leffen has obtained a short term, P-1 visa, which will allow him entry into the United States until the end of July. This means that Leffen can now enter EVO and other American tournaments.
According to TSM's website, his visa was originally declined because:
- "Super Smash Bros Melee is a grassroots game and is not institutionalized
- Super Smash Bros Melee is not considered a legitimate sport
- There is no real ranking system other than a few non-legitimate websites"
Are you excited to see Leffen at American majors? What do you think this development could mean for the community? Let us know in the comments below!
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