The practical consequence of respect isn't a vibe; it's whether institutions put money, rules, and careers behind it. Leagues already fill arenas, sell broadcast rights, fund scholarships, and sign sponsorship deals that look a lot like traditional sports. That doesn't prove esports is equally respected today, and the other side is right that legitimacy has to be earned through transparency, labor protections, and credible anti-cheat. But those are solvable governance problems, not permanent barriers. Respect follows durable institutions and audiences. If esports keeps building both, cultural status catches up. I'd demand evidence, and the money and infrastructure are evidence.

Here's a fact worth weighing: esports was a medal event at the 2023 Asian Games, with official podiums and national teams. That's not a vibe; that's institutional recognition. My opponent says esports lacks history and culture, and that's fair as far as it goes. But respect isn't a function of centuries. Basketball was invented in 1891 and is now globally respected. What earns respect is durable rules, audiences, and money, and esports is building those. The other side actually concedes esports is respected, just not equally. That's a gap that closes with time and governance, not an unbridgeable barrier.