T1’s Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok (Photo courtesy of Riot Games)
SEOUL, Nov. 11 (Korea Bizwire) — Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok, captain of South Korea’s T1, said his enduring passion for competition and growth keeps him motivated after leading his team to a historic third consecutive victory at the 2025 League of Legends World Championship.
“I’ve always loved the game, and competing with the best players still feels meaningful,” Faker told reporters after T1’s 3–2 win over KT Rolster in the finals held in Chengdu, China, on November 9. “My new contract through 2029 reflects my desire to keep improving and to inspire others along the way.
T1’s Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok celebrates after winning the 2025 League of Legends World Championship. (Photo courtesy of Riot Games)
Faker, who has spent his entire 12-year professional career with T1 since debuting in 2013, dismissed concerns about age, saying performance depends more on mindset and self-discipline than years.
“Maintaining passion and the will to grow is what matters most, even as you get older,” he said. “I recently had a health check-up, and the results weren’t as good as before. Health is directly tied to performance, so that will be my priority.”
Top laner Choi “Doran” Hyun-joon, who joined T1 this season, expressed pride in finishing his first year with a championship. “From the start, I was confident I could contribute,” he said. “After joining, I realized not only how skilled my teammates are, but also how strong their mindset is as professional players.”
South Korean esports star Lee Sang-hyeok, better known as Faker, speaks at the 2024 Future Dialogue for Global Innovation event hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Seoul on Nov. 20, 2024. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
When asked about contract renewals, Doran said no decisions had been made, noting that optional extensions depend on both parties’ agreement. Bottom laner Lee “Gumayusi” Min-hyeong, named the final’s MVP, reflected on the team’s growth through adversity.
“Every hardship is an opportunity to learn,” he said. “We overcame our weaknesses, and those difficult moments made today’s victory even more meaningful.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
