For the Esports World Cup 2024, the event was initially not well-received by the League of Legends community, especially T1 fans. At that time, arguments were made that the tournament was held during a tense period of the LCK Summer 2024, and the time zone difference would affect the players’ rest. Moreover, since the tournament was not part of Riot’s system, not only T1 fans but also many other teams expressed concerns about the quality of the matches, and there was even worry that the organizers would struggle to run a professional event. However, as of now, it can be said that T1 is the team that has benefited the most from EWC 2024.
Firstly, there is the impressive prize money of $400,000 (around over 10 billion VND) for T1 after their victory against Top Esports in the finals early on July 8 (Vietnam time). For those who may not know, this prize is nearly equivalent to a World Championship title, as in 2023 T1 received $445,000 (over 11 billion VND). Additionally, this is the first title that T1 has secured in 2024. Many fans also hope that this championship will serve as a good foundation for T1 to return to the LCK Summer 2024 with a relieved mindset, as well as prepare for the upcoming World Championship 2024.
More importantly, EWC 2024 showcased T1 in a way that seemed to have faded into the past for a long time. This includes a Faker who is unafraid of any champion matchup, even Yasuo. Or a T1 that is willing to share resources and allow Gumayusi to use pure marksmen like Kai’Sa, Jhin… without worrying that he would be “shut down” or unable to carry the team. There is Oner with his calm demeanor and Zeus ready to pick tanks to ensure the team achieves the best possible results, as well as a Keria who nurtures Gumayusi more than roaming to gank continuously and letting his marksman “play the game”.
Of course, while T1 has succeeded at EWC 2024, the LCK Summer 2024 will be a very different environment, and further ahead is the World Championship 2024. However, it seems that the T1 players have gained valuable experience from their trip to Saudi Arabia and may see many new developments as they return to their main journey in 2024.