When we talk about the greatest players in esports history, Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok is the undisputed king of League of Legends. His dominance over the game for more than a decade is something that no player has ever replicated, and in 2024, he once again proved why he is the GOAT.
With T1’s historic Worlds 2024 victory, Faker added another championship to his already legendary career, securing his fourth Worlds title and earning the prestigious Finals MVP award. His performance throughout the season, from LCK struggles to international triumph, showcased the same mechanical brilliance and leadership that have defined his career.
This article dives deep into Faker’s 2024 season, exploring the challenges he overcame, his incredible run at Worlds, and what this victory means for his already cemented legacy.
Early 2024: Navigating Challenges
The LCK Spring Split was far from smooth sailing for T1. Despite being one of Korea’s top teams, meta shifts and fierce competition tested their consistency. Faker, at 27, wasn’t just a superstar player—he was also the backbone of the squad, guiding his younger teammates through a turbulent season.
T1 finished third in the Spring regular season, showing flashes of brilliance but also struggling against rivals like Gen.G and KT Rolster. Roster stability was a key issue—injuries and meta adjustments forced the team to adapt constantly. Despite this, Faker remained the team’s primary shot-caller, demonstrating unmatched veteran presence even when T1 fell short in the Spring Playoffs.
“Faker is more than just a player; he’s the heart of T1,” an analyst on the Tips.GG esports platform noted during the season. His ability to maintain composure under pressure set him apart from the rest, ensuring that T1 remained a top contender heading into Summer.
LCK Summer and Road to Worlds
Heading into Summer Split, T1 refined their strategies, and Faker elevated his playstyle to match the evolving meta. The mid-lane champion pool saw significant shifts, but Faker once again showcased his unparalleled versatility, mastering picks like Ahri, Orianna, and Azir to dominate key matchups.
T1 finished second in the regular season and reached the LCK Summer Finals, falling short against a surging Gen.G squad. While they didn’t claim the domestic crown, their Worlds qualification was never in doubt.
Faker’s impact in the playoffs was undeniable, especially in high-stakes series. His ability to clutch out teamfights and provide the necessary macro leadership helped T1 regain their momentum heading into Worlds. When asked about their expectations for the tournament, Faker confidently stated, “We are always here to win. That is T1’s mindset.”
With this mentality, T1 entered Worlds 2024 as Korea’s strongest hope, looking to reclaim international dominance.
Worlds 2024: Faker’s Greatest Challenge
T1’s Worlds campaign started in dominant fashion, securing a flawless group stage run and proving that they were once again a top-tier powerhouse. Faker, playing with his signature confidence, brought out both comfort picks and innovative strategies, dismantling opponents with his legendary laning and map control.
The knockout stage was where Faker truly shined. Against China’s JDG in the quarterfinals, he pulled off an incredible Azir shuffle, turning what seemed like a lost teamfight into a game-winning moment. In the semifinals versus KT Rolster, he outclassed his mid-lane opponent with a masterclass on LeBlanc, proving that his mechanics are still world-class even after a decade of competition.
By the time T1 reached the Grand Finals, there was no doubt: Faker was playing some of the best League of Legends of his career.
The Grand Finals: A Masterclass from Faker
The Worlds 2024 Grand Finals saw T1 face off against China’s BLG, a team that had dominated the tournament with aggressive early-game strategies. The series was set to be a clash of experience vs. momentum, and Faker delivered when it mattered most.
Game 1 started with Faker dominating mid lane on Ahri, outmaneuvering his opponent and securing early-game advantages for T1. In Game 3, he locked in Ryze, a champion that had previously defined some of his greatest performances, and orchestrated a flawless side-lane macro strategy to secure another win.
The final game was nothing short of legendary – Faker on Orianna, landing a game-winning Shockwave that wiped BLG in the final teamfight. With that, T1 lifted the Summoner’s Cup for the fourth time, and Faker, now a four-time World Champion, cemented his name in history once again.
Legacy and Impact: What This Win Means
This fourth Worlds title puts Faker in a league of his own. No other player has achieved such consistent dominance over such a long career. His impact on younger generations of players is immeasurable, with rising stars constantly citing him as their greatest inspiration.
More than just a player, Faker has become the face of League of Legends esports. His leadership has allowed T1 to remain at the forefront of the competitive scene, proving that experience and skill can still triumph over raw talent.
With esports evolving rapidly, even crypto esports betting markets reflected Faker’s legendary status – his individual performances consistently shifted odds throughout the tournament, a testament to his impact on the global stage.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Faker?
After securing his fourth Worlds title, one question remains: What’s next for Faker?
At 27, he has nothing left to prove, yet he remains as motivated as ever. Could he chase a fifth Worlds title in 2025? His mechanical skill still rivals that of younger players, and his leadership remains invaluable to T1.
As we look ahead to the next season, one thing is certain: Faker’s name will forever be synonymous with greatness. Whether he continues competing or eventually transitions into a coaching role, his influence on League of Legends esports will never fade.
For now, fans can celebrate another chapter in the greatest esports story ever told – Faker’s unrelenting pursuit of perfection.
