2013 World Championship

Lore & Background

The narrative of this championship is inextricably linked to the rise of Lee 'Faker' Sang-hyeok. His performance during the tournament, particularly his mastery of the mid-lane mage, redefined what was possible for a solo laner. The team's synergy, led by veteran captain Go 'Polt' Dong-bin and the strategic mind of coach Kim 'kkOma' Jeong-gyun, created an impenetrable fortress in the final match. This victory cemented their status as the first true dynasty of League of Legends, inspiring a generation of players to emulate their style.

In Their Own Story

The air inside the arena was thick with anticipation, a palpable tension that hummed louder than the cheering crowds. On stage, the T1 roster sat in silence, eyes fixed on the screens where the fate of their legacy hung in the balance. As the first game of the final began, Faker's fingers danced across his keyboard, summoning a storm of magic that seemed to defy logic. With every skill shot landed and every objective secured, the roar from the Korean contingent grew into a deafening wave. When the third victory screen finally flashed, it wasn't just a celebration; it was the birth of a legend.

Reader's Guide

T1 entered the tournament as favorites but faced stiff competition throughout the group stages. They navigated through the Swiss-system format with consistent victories, showcasing their adaptability against teams like Origen and CLG.EU. The semi-finals saw them dismantle the formidable Chinese team WE, proving their ability to handle high-pressure scenarios. The grand final was a sweep of historic proportions. T1 faced Royal Club, a team that had dominated the North American scene. In a stunning display of coordination, T1 took the first game with a decisive team fight victory. The second game saw them control the map early, denying objectives and forcing errors from their opponents. By the third game, Royal Club was visibly rattled. Faker's performance was nothing short of legendary, outplaying his counterpart in every engagement. T1 closed out the series 3-0, claiming the Summoner's Cup for the first time. This victory established them as the benchmark for all future teams.

Did You Know?

• This tournament marked the very first time a Korean team won the League of Legends World Championship.
• Lee 'Faker' Sang-hyeok was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the entire tournament.
• The final score of 3-0 remains one of the most dominant performances in World Championship history.
• This victory launched T1's reputation as a dynasty, leading to multiple future championships.