PROFESSIONAL League of Legends gamer Remilia has died "in her sleep" aged 24.
The Las Vegas-born video game player, real name Maria Creveling, passed away "peacefully" last night, her boyfriend announced on Twitter.
He wrote: "My girlfriend Maria died last night.
"She wouldn't want any lengthy public statement, so all I'll say is the four months I knew her were the best of both our lives and although she deserved so much more, it was a privilege to know her for the short time I did.
"RIP Maria, I love you."
Remilia - who was transgender - was the first ever woman to compete professionally in the hugely popular multi-player fantasy game League of Legends.
'DIED IN HER SLEEP'
She competed in the 2015 Championship Series as part of the Esports team Renegades.
Her friend Richard Lewis also paid tribute to the gamer saying her death left a "void that can never be filled".
He said: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that my best friend Maria Creveling passed away peacefully in her sleep yesterday.
"Her absence will leave a void that can never be filled.
'INSPIRATIONAL GAMER'
"She would not have wanted any lengthy statements or grand eulogies. Despite having fans all over the world she was never one who craved the spotlight.
"My only request is that anyone wanting to pay tribute reach out to ensure that it is done in a manner that respects her wishes."
Remilia had stepped back from gaming citing mental health issues after she was targeted by jealous trolls online.
The talented gamer spoke about battling anxiety and self-esteem issues she quit Renegades in 2016.
She said: "The past few weeks have been really tough for me as I’ve continued to struggle with a lot of personal issues.
"Most notably anxiety and self-esteem issues.
"These were amplified by playing on stage and the rigorous day-to-day of being a pro player, compounded with a lot of the stress."
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Fans have also paid tribute to the gamer calling her "inspirational".
One said: "This is terribly tragic, Maria was always so kind and thoughtful in all my interactions with her."
Another posted: "I'm shook, she was one of the best people I knew, never met someone as funny, smart and thoughtful."
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