BY NOR SITI IZYANI SAHIMI
The world of League of Legends is no stranger to epic tales of triumph and defeat. Amidst this ebb and flow, one name stands unrivalled: T1, the most outstanding organisation in League of Legends history, and their iconic player, Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok. This past weekend, they etched yet another chapter into the annals of esports history as they clinched the 2023 League of Legends World Championship, a victory that echoed beyond mere numbers and titles.
The significance of this win cannot be overstated. T1 and Faker lifted the Summoner’s Cup for the fourth time, a feat achieved on home soil at the Gocheok Sky Dome, where their loyal fans added an electric atmosphere to the already-charged event. This victory reverberated within the esports community and resonated globally, drawing an astounding peak audience of 6.4 million, setting an unprecedented record in esports viewership.
In the opening match, Weibo Gaming initially surged ahead, securing a 3-1 lead in kills. However, T1 swiftly adapted, focusing on critical objectives like dragons and Barons, gradually taking the lead in gold. T1’s strategy solidified as the game progressed, culminating in securing a dragon soul and multiple Barons, leading to a definitive victory despite a tense battle.
Transitioning to Game 2, T1 took an assertive stance from the outset, securing early kills and consistently targeting Weibo’s key player, TheShy. Although maintaining a slim lead in gold, T1 encountered resistance as Weibo claimed the initial dragons. Yet, T1’s strategic approach, particularly around key team fights, led to crucial wins and a solid Baron acquisition. Ultimately, Zeus’s standout performance sealed the win, marking a 2-0 lead in the series.
Game 3 showcased T1’s continued dominance. Despite a more aggressive stance from Weibo, they swiftly grabbed the first kills and maintained control by securing dragons early on. A pivotal team battle, bolstered by Faker’s exceptional plays, allowed T1 to secure Dragon Soul and a commanding lead, culminating in a swift victory and securing the championship title.
For T1, this victory holds a profound weight. It marked their first World Championship triumph since 2016, a period where the ascent to the top sometimes felt uncertain. The journey, albeit legendary, was fraught with challenges. Despite their earlier successes in 2013, 2015, and 2016, subsequent years saw a shift in power dynamics, with Chinese teams asserting dominance and other Korean teams rising to challenge T1’s reign.
The narrative leading up to this triumph was marked by perseverance and a relentless pursuit of greatness. The roster, comprising Faker alongside Zeus, Oner, Gumayusi, and Keria, persevered through setbacks and speculation, maintaining an unwavering unity that transcended the virtual battlefield. Their unyielding dedication resulted in a record-breaking 74 matches played together since their formation in 2022.
The path to victory was paved with formidable adversaries from China, with T1 facing a gauntlet of challenges against Bilibili Gaming, LNG Esports, JD Gaming, and, ultimately, a decisive 3-0 victory over Weibo in the finals. This triumph was not just about claiming the championship; it was a testament to Faker’s incredible legacy. Across eight World Championships, Faker has never succumbed in a best-of-five playoff series against a Chinese team, a testament to his unparalleled skill and composure under pressure.
However, uncertainty looms over the roster’s future as the curtains draw on this championship season. With multiple player contracts expiring, questions arise about the continuity of this celebrated lineup. Gumayusi, Keria, and Zeus’ contracts are due to expire this month, leaving a cloud of speculation around their potential return for the next season.
Amidst this uncertainty, the one constant for T1 remains Faker. Despite contract expirations, the 27-year-old maestro remains the linchpin for the team’s success. His loyalty to T1 remains steadfast, as he expressed his commitment to continue working with the organisation in the aftermath of the Worlds final.
“Since I’m still contracted with T1, I’ll still be working with the organisation,” Faker shared with the media post-final, as reported by Inven Global. “I’ve been learning and growing throughout my pro gaming career. This isn’t an experience anyone can have, so I’ll keep working hard and think about retiring later.”
As T1 looks towards the future, the roster dynamics and uncertainty do not seem to overshadow the indelible legacy crafted by T1 and Faker. Beyond championships and trophies, their journey embodies resilience, unity, and unwavering dedication. Their story transcends victories — a saga that will inspire generations and remain etched in the lore of League of Legends for years to come.
** This article was written by a student from the Strategic Communication Programme at the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication, UNIMAS.
