The 2023 season has truly been an unforgettable one for T1 and for TheShy – the opponent of the T1 players in the finals of Worlds 2023. Both T1 and TheShy experienced a year full of ups and downs. In fact, their participation in Worlds 2023, thanks to the last spot from the regional qualifiers, led to Weibo Gaming being seen more as a “supporting cast” for the other three LPL representatives. WBG itself is also not a very stable team. Prior to the semifinal match against Bilibili Gaming, it would be quite unfair to compare WBG with any of the other three LPL representatives.
As for TheShy, this has truly been an incredible comeback for him since the end of the 2019 season. Still playing as a top laner with a playstyle full of surprises, TheShy has struggled with his own shadow and persistent injuries. Before joining WBG, perhaps only TheShy’s fans dared to imagine the prospect of him playing at another Worlds. But by 2023, not only did he return to this arena, but “Shy ca” even reached the finals.
One thing is undeniable: despite losing to Zeus, TheShy still demonstrated a significant influence and effective unpredictability in his gameplay. According to Nuguri – another World Champion, TheShy is better than Zeus: “No player has been able to play like him (TheShy) and left such an impression on me. Although Zeus also plays very well, in my mind, TheShy is the strongest top laner.”
Nuguri’s comments may seem subjective since the former DK star can be considered a “firm fan” of TheShy, with a playstyle as a top laner focusing on dealing damage. However, if we look broadly at TheShy’s entire career, as well as the performance of the 2018 World Champion at the recent Worlds, Nuguri’s comments may not be exaggerated. WBG reaching the finals was largely thanks to TheShy’s contributions. In fact, in many games, it was TheShy who was the main force “carrying the team”.
Furthermore, in terms of influence on the LoL scene, TheShy likely surpasses Zeus – a young player who is just beginning his third season with T1. TheShy was one of the players who developed the “Top Lane Carry” playstyle to its peak. Along with his former teammate Rookie, he helped popularize the use of Korean imports in the LPL. Additionally, TheShy’s IG team ended the LCK’s dominance, with this top lane being one of the three main pillars leading to IG’s success that year.
Perhaps in the future, Zeus will surpass even his senior. But for now, Zeus is an excellent player, yet overall, TheShy still holds a slight edge over T1’s rising star.