Perhaps there has never been a year where the World Championship (Worlds) has become such a hot topic of discussion. The reason lies in the fans’ anticipation for players like Ruler and Kanavi to lead JD Gaming into League of Legends history as a team and players who can claim every title possible in a single season – something that the legendary SKT T1 has never achieved. Another reason is the expectation to see if T1 can finally end their streak of second-place finishes.
However, at the Worlds 2023, many factors are supporting T1. First, the meta of patch 13.19 will be applied at the upcoming Worlds 2023. As mentioned, champions that T1’s stars are very comfortable with, such as Jhin, Caitlyn, or Lee Sin, will receive significant buffs. Meanwhile, Zeri and Xayah will be nerfed. Not to mention, T1 players like Zeus and Keria have already claimed their first international title (Gold Medal at the ASIAD). This could provide the necessary boost in morale for these players to perform better, especially in crucial matches.
But aside from the meta and the players, T1 fans recognize another important factor: This is the first Worlds that SKT T1/T1 is participating in where they are not highly regarded, except for the first year this team entered the Worlds (2013). According to a “hardcore” T1 fan: “When T1 can truly be an underdog, who knows this might be the time we win the championship.” In fact, many T1 fans are even pleading with Riot not to mention their team as if they are the reigning champions of Worlds 2022 or just won the LCK.
Clearly, for a team like T1, what they need most right now is a strong mindset from stars like Oner, Gumayusi, Zeus, and Keria. Being underestimated is not a disaster, especially when the LCK Summer 2023 has proven: when T1 has its strongest lineup, teams that underestimate them will pay a heavy price. Not having to bear too much pressure could help T1 players perform more fluidly.
Of course, T1 players must also understand that while there is no pressure to win, it does not mean they can perform poorly. The highest level of focus and best performance is crucial, especially since this could be the last Worlds 2023 for the current T1 roster.