It Should End the Comparison Between Gumayusi and Smash
Since Gumayusi had to sit on the bench and Smash was promoted to replace him, it goes without saying how much the League of Legends community has “boiled”. Korean fans reacted strongly in various ways while international audiences debated and argued. And inevitably, the comparison between the two players and the impact they bring to T1 through their matches couldn’t be missed.
Perhaps it’s unnecessary to delve too deep to see that: Smash is receiving praise and he unintentionally becomes the reason for some overly enthusiastic fans and T1 anti-fans to attack Gumayusi in return. Scattered across various forums, there are even those who believe that Gumayusi is about to “pack his bags” and leave T1.
In reality, this is very unfair to both players. First is Smash, as he is playing entirely for himself. Therefore, Smash probably does not want to be compared to his predecessor. Especially when compared, what Gumayusi has accomplished makes Smash’s three wins seem quite insignificant.
As for Gumayusi, this is a difficult phase for him. Therefore, being compared to his junior not only shows a lack of respect for the efforts Gumayusi has dedicated to T1 since Summer 2021 but also disregards the titles he has won with T1.
In the two World Championship titles and the Spring 2022 LCK championship of T1, Gumayusi’s imprint is even more prominent than that of Zeus or Keria. For instance, the 1v2 play against JD Gaming in the 2023 World Championship semifinals, or being the MVP in the semifinals against Gen.G at the 2024 World Championship. The long unbeaten streak that T1 has maintained since Spring 2022 also relies on the core of the Guma – Keria duo’s gameplay.
T1 Is Benefiting and Gumayusi – Smash Also Gain More Motivation
In all sports throughout history, there has been no position that is “untouchable”. Even in some unimportant matches, top superstars are willing to suggest resting to prepare for bigger matches. Even in Esports, it is similar. Once T1 has resolved the issue of “unannounced substitutions”, all comparisons should have ended.
Every comparison will negatively affect the players themselves. This is something to be avoided, especially since Gumayusi has proven himself long ago while Smash still has a bright future ahead.