The 2023 World Championship (Worlds) is the first time Riot has implemented many new formats for the highest-level international tournament in the League of Legends scene. First and foremost for the VCS region, both representatives of Vietnam’s League of Legends had to compete from the Play-In stage. However, overcoming many difficulties, VCS became the only minor region to have representatives in the Swiss round. Although GAM Esports was eventually eliminated, it can be said that VCS has left a strong impression.
That is in terms of team performance, while individually, the VCS is also showcasing the strength and impressive performances of players who have achieved certain accomplishments. Accordingly, Kiaya is the player with the most solo kills (wins in 1v1 situations) at the Swiss round of Worlds 2023 with 4 opponent takedowns. Notably, in this round, GAM had to face very strong teams like Gen.G, Dplus KIA, Fnatic, and Team Liquid. And Kiaya himself had to go up against Doran – the reigning LCK champion, Canna – an experienced player, Summit – a former LCK star, and Oscarinin – an up-and-coming star from the LEC.
Kiaya’s achievement surpasses even other top laners who have diverse and aggressive play styles like Zeus and 369. Especially when GAM was considered the weakest team in the Swiss round, until before they defeated TL and directly eliminated the LCS representative. Broader in the Play-In stage, Kiaya was also one of the two players with the most solo kills at 8. The other player was Adam – who also performed impressively at this year’s Worlds.
Although he couldn’t help GAM advance in the Swiss round, Kiaya’s performance is highly commendable. He is also one of the few GAM players who maintained consistent form throughout and often served as a support for his teammates. Of course, in the new season, Sang “Little” will still be the core of GAM as they aim for new achievements together.