French CS:GO streamer and former pro maleK dies at 35

French streamer Malek "maleK" Bennouioua has passed away at the age of 35, according to announcements from several community figures on social media. The cause of death has not been made public.

maleK began playing CS:Source in 2011 and became a well-known figure in the French CS:GO competitive scene for many years. He competed for organisations including beGenius and Epsilon, where he played alongside Audric "JACKZ" Jug. After stepping back from professional play, he transitioned to full-time content creation, building an audience of over 130,000 YouTube subscribers and 155,000 Twitch followers.

Several prominent members of the French esports community have paid tribute to maleK on social media. Dan "apEX" Madesclaire wrote "Rest in peace, maleK." Richard "shox" Papillon shared a longer tribute, reflecting on their 20-year friendship. "I had known him for 20 years, from memories of PxL to a restaurant we went to together just a year ago. He was a dad," shox wrote. "I beg you, don't stay alone when things aren't okay. I wish I had known so I could have helped him. Tears are running down my face this morning, I can't imagine what his family is going through... My deepest condolences." Other community figures including Ryan "Neityu" Aubry, Sebastien "KRL" Perez and Steeve "Ozstrik3r" Flavigni also shared their condolences.