Tim Cook, who has served as Apple's CEO since 2011, will step down from the position effective September 2026. However, what is currently buzzing in online communities is his supposed move to the esports organization Aurora Gaming.

John Ternus, currently Apple's senior vice president of hardware engineering, will succeed Cook as CEO. In a calm and composed message posted on Apple's official website, it was noted that Cook is expected to transition to the role of Chairman of the Board.

Meanwhile, Aurora Gaming announced Cook's recruitment via its X (formerly Twitter) account. The organization shared an image styled like a professional esports player announcement, stating that Cook would be joining as a player for their Microsoft Excel division.

While Microsoft Excel Esports is a real league where competitors race to solve complex spreadsheet problems using speed and logic, this announcement appears to be nothing more than a one-sided claim by Aurora Gaming's official account. It is best viewed as a piece of Western-style humor—a lighthearted joke directed at a high-profile figure whose future plans are currently open.