Buzz
Since their triumph at the 2016 Worlds, T1 has remained empty-handed on the international stage for almost 8 years.
Recently, fans have been questioning: 'Does SKT T1/T1 truly succeed when they've been trophy-less on the international stage for almost 8 years?' Admittedly, during this period since the 2016 Worlds victory, SKT T1/T1 has continued to dominate domestically. However, both MSI and Worlds trophies have eluded Faker and his teammates for quite some time now. Previous losses could be attributed to formidable opponents, but the defeat at Worlds 2022 is indefensible as DRX continues to be T1's favored prey domestically.
'Is the issue with Faker or T1?' is a question sparking debates among fans. Since 2017, SKT T1/T1 has undergone numerous roster changes, yet success on the international stage continues to evade them. However, when they decided to take a different approach (temporarily sidelining Faker), T1 immediately became a 'snake without a head.' Thus, it can be understood that the young talents of T1 are indeed the problem—they lack the experience and championship mentality of their predecessors.
Turning to T1's youth team, the most recent season where they dominated the Challengers was when HLV Bengi was still part of the lineup alongside stars like Roach and Berserker. In the last Summer Split, the T1 youth team only managed to secure a 4th place finish overall, even dropping to the bottom of the standings at times. Poby, when brought up to the main roster, faced defeats even against weaker opponents like DRX. Clearly, in terms of skill, young players like Gumayusi, Oner, and Zeus are unmatched. However, their mentality seems to shatter at crucial moments.
Psychological issues require prolonged nurturing, starting from their time as academy players. Therefore, T1's model may still produce 'big-handed' players. However, in reality, they only possess 'mouse-sized courage.' And once Faker is gone, not to mention international victories, even in LCK, they might just become an average and weak team.
Stepping onto the international stage, every match holds immense significance, especially when entering the knockout stage. Worlds 2022 witnessed a historic moment in League of Legends history as Faker, with a heavy heart, watched Keria collapse at the table, crying uncontrollably. T1 comprehends why they faced defeat, and undoubtedly, Faker is determined not to miss an opportunity again, especially when the gates to paradise are right in front of them.
