Buzz
The fates are vastly different for the most renowned veterans in the League of Legends scene after the Spring 2022 group stage.
After the last transfer window of the 2021 season, all 4 major regions in the League of Legends scene attracted attention with sensational deals. Particularly, four figures caught the eye of fans and the media alike. They are Faker (LCK), Uzi (LPL), Bjergsen (LCS), and Rekkles (LEC). Not only monuments of their respective regions but also in their gameplay, these 4 veteran players have taken different paths in the last transfer window of the 2021 season. Consequently, their fates now vary greatly.
Bjergsen (LCS) - Returns and joins Team Liquid after a stint as a coach
The first name is Bjergsen - a monument in North American League of Legends and of Team SoloMid. After an unsuccessful coaching stint, Bjergsen decided to come back to his professional player career. However, surprisingly, he didn't join the familiar TSM anymore but moved to... TSM's archrival - Team Liquid. This transfer decision at the time surprised the North American League of Legends community. Yet, given TSM's current situation, everyone sees Bjergsen as the one who sees the bigger picture.
And Bjergsen made the right decision, so his path is also very comfortable. TL in Spring 2022 is still the powerhouse of North American League of Legends. Although Bjergsen no longer has the divine highlights as before, it doesn't matter. Around him are young, talented teammates. Especially, the ADC Hans sama is getting better and better. Bjergsen hasn't achieved MVP yet, but his all-around performances in the mid lane are more than enough to help TL soar after the LCS Spring 2022 group stage ends.
Rekkles (LEC) - Signs with Karmine Corp in the French League of Legends Championship (equivalent to tier 2 league)
If Bjergsen's return to his archrival's team was surprising, then Rekkles' career move is equally astonishing. The esteemed marksman of the LEC, Rekkles, has opted for Karmine Corp - a team in the French League of Legends Championship to compete in Spring 2022. It's worth noting that Rekkles, at 26 years old this year, is on the downward slope of his career. Choosing KC might prevent Rekkles from competing for any major titles anymore. Moreover, Rekkles' transfer also led caster Laure to promise fans a 'naked run around the Élysée Palace' due to its unbelievable nature.
It's hard to say whether Rekkles succeeded with his choice as KC found themselves in a difficult position after a loss to LDLC OL. However, with this tournament using a win-loss bracket format, Rekkles and his teammates still have a chance against Team BDS Academy. Furthermore, KC is the strongest team in the French league. Therefore, in the future, if they perform well, Rekkles could very well compete with KC in the LEC - a league where he once reigned supreme during the glorious years of his career.
Uzi (LPL) - Joins Bilibili Gaming after a long hiatus from competitive play
Another veteran's comeback, but Uzi's situation is quite different from Bjergsen's. While Bjergsen remains dedicated to professional League of Legends, Uzi focused on recovering from injuries and climbing the ranked ladder. However, even climbing the ladder proved ineffective, casting doubt on Uzi's comeback. The destination for the LPL's 'Super Marksman' is Bilibili Gaming - a team that later signed young ADC Doggo, further fueling speculation that BLG recruited Uzi to boost their brand.
And currently, those doubts seem entirely accurate. Uzi has only played a handful of matches and spent most of his time on the bench. Recently, BLG announced that Uzi will rest for the entirety of Spring 2022. It's unclear if this marks the end of the era for the 'Super Marksman' or not, but clearly, despite being the youngest player on this list, Uzi has the most tragic fate.
Faker (LCK) - Extends contract with T1
The only name on the list who stays with the same team and also the most successful among the 4 most famous veterans in the League of Legends scene, none other than Faker. Having gone through countless doubts under coaches Kim and Daeny, when it seemed Faker couldn't reach any more titles, he now stands as the veteran with the most intimidating unbeaten record in League of Legends history: 18 wins - 0 losses. At the age of 26, he has everything that illustrious veterans of League of Legends like Bjergsen, SwordArt, Rekkles... have yet to achieve.
Especially, Faker is also the only player until now whose contract extension alone is enough to make the League of Legends community go crazy. News about Faker's contract extension has yet to be officially confirmed by anyone, but it's almost certain to be a record-breaking contract. Moreover, CEO Joe Marsh affirmed that he discussed T1's future with Faker before the 'Demon King' agreed to extend his contract.
And currently, Faker is preparing with T1 for the battle against Kwangdong Freecs as a strong contender for the LCK Spring 2022 championship title. From a name with doubts as he ventured into the twilight of his career, Faker is having a shining season and becoming the flagship for the team dubbed the 'invincible squad' of the League of Legends world on their journey to break the most formidable records in the history of Riot's 'national game'.
