Before the 2022 LCK Summer Split, the most notable news was Nuguri’s return to professional play under the DK banner. Previously, Nuguri had taken a long break after his failure at the 2021 World Championship with FPX and skipped the spring split entirely. With top-notch skills and proven class, many hoped that Nuguri would have a long and successful career ahead.
However, just a few days ago, Nuguri made some surprising comments to the Korean media, stating that he is currently at the final stage of his career. This caught even seasoned reporter Ashley Kang off guard, prompting her to ask what led Nuguri to share this information.
Question: You just told us that this is the end of your career. I am really shocked and curious as to why you think that way.
DK Nuguri: One thing I’ve realized while playing professionally is that you have to continuously play games and practice throughout the season. It’s true that there will be a break after the World Championship, but when the season starts, it’s non-stop training. After playing for such a long time, both my mind and body can become exhausted.
This is happening to me; even my teammates are worried. Deokdam often tells me to stop drinking soda and just drink water. But when he brings me a water bottle, I just set it aside and drink soda instead. Maybe I need to take better care of myself.
For Nuguri himself, he has a history of health issues after overtraining for extended periods. Remember that before the 2020 World Championship, Nuguri had to be hospitalized and underwent emergency surgery due to a pneumothorax. After the early elimination of FPX at the 2021 World Championship, both his mental and physical health deteriorated, leading him to take a break to regain his motivation.
Perhaps due to having experienced many negative things in the past, Nuguri is considering retiring early, even though he is only 22 this year. It wouldn’t be surprising if, within the next 1-2 years, Nuguri announces his retirement, leaving LCK fans lamenting the loss of one of the biggest talents the league has ever produced.