Mentioning SofM, aside from contributing to changing the jungle mentality in the LPL region, or “inventing” unique item builds, League of Legends fans LPL and VCS fans in particular, as well as the world in general, will remember most notably the achievement of reaching the finals of a Worlds (2020). At that time, if SofM’s Suning hadn’t faced a Damwon Gaming at their peak performance, SofM could have become the first Vietnamese player to win a Worlds title.
But of course, it wasn’t just SofM; that victory was the result of all five players. The leadership of SwordArt, the synergy between SofM and Bin and Angel, and especially the talent of AD Carry Huanfeng was exemplary, especially the moment when Jhin stood right in the opponent’s base to unleash Curtain Call. But perhaps, Huanfeng himself did not expect that the 2020 Worlds would be the brightest and also the last highlight of his career. After the 2020 Worlds, Huanfeng has stagnated and is currently going through incredibly tough times.
Recently, according to Chinese media, Huanfeng has set his status to “Unemployed”. In fact, in a share with fans on his personal Weibo, the former runner-up of the 2020 Worlds even asserted that he might change careers to save himself: “After stabilizing, I will play ranked in Korea as a Support. When the economic situation improves, I will hire someone to teach me language, exercise, and improve myself. I will also try to earn money (through paid gaming services). Additionally, once the psychological pressure is lifted, I will start livestreaming”.
Huanfeng also mentioned that these are the best ways he can currently take before the upcoming off-season. Thus, it can be understood that Huanfeng is almost certainly skipping the Spring 2024 season to regain focus, spirit, and improve his skills. He has even considered “changing careers”, possibly moving to Support to save himself.
Huanfeng’s temporary break is unfortunate, but it may be a necessary pause for this player. Huanfeng has long been seen as the “eternal prodigy” of the LPL, and who knows, after a period of rest, he may return stronger than ever to continue contributing to professional League of Legends.