When Super Smash Bros. Melee player William “Leffen” Hjelte, who is considered to be one of the best in the world, was deported from the U.S. while using a tourist visa instead of a work visa, an outcry emerged from the community. Alongside a social media campaign to raise awareness for the troubles Hjelte had to face, a petition was put in place. The petition needed at least 100,000 signatures within 30 days to be addressed. It reached 108,586 signatures about a week before its deadline. Now, the White House has to talk about the matter and is bound to give an official update within 60 days.

While it is unlikely that the U.S. government will follow the suggestion to consider all esports as legitimate sports straight away, it is still a major success for the esports industry. Once again, a government deals with the topic and, at least, needs to position itself. Professional players in top tier esports titles like League of Legends received P1 visas in the past, that said, a precedent is already existing. Nonetheless, the topic of visas is more complex than that. It’s about more than just recognition of electronic sports, but touches foreign affair issues too.

However, it would be a welcome surprise if the White House decides in favor of this petition. With Turner’s ELEAGUE around the corner, and the rumoured ESPN/Riot broadcasting deal, the U.S. public will see esports hitting the mainstream heavily this year. A governmental recognition would be a huge boost to this development.