LGD Gaming, a stalwart in the Dota 2 competitive scene, suffered a significant upset in the TI2024 China Qualifier, failing to secure a spot at The International for the first time in their illustrious 11-year history.
Tournament Upset
In a surprising turn of events during the TI2024 China Qualifier, LGD Gaming faced a devastating defeat, marking their absence from The International for the first time in over a decade.
Initially favored, LGD was knocked into the Lower Bracket by Azure Ray, a team considered underdogs in the matchup. Despite high hopes for redemption, LGD Gaming ultimately faltered against Team Turtle, a new stack featuring popular Chinese veterans, including former LGD players Somnus and Chalice.
Roster and Performance
LGD Gaming’s Dota 2 roster for the 2024 season included:
- Guo “shiro” Xuanang
- Xu “Echo” Ziliang
- Li “niu” Kongbo
- Xiong “Pyw” Jiahan
- Zhang “y`” Yiping
Despite a period of inactivity aimed at roster adjustments, including changes in the midlaner position, LGD Gaming struggled with inconsistent performances throughout the season. This culminated in their unexpected elimination from the TI qualifier, a disappointing outcome for the team known for their resilience and consistent presence on the international stage.
Legacy and Achievements
LGD Gaming has been one of the most consistent organizations in Dota 2 history, making their debut at The International in 2012 with a 3rd place finish. Over the years, LGD maintained their presence at TI through direct invitations, DPC points, or successful qualifications.
They showcased remarkable resilience even during challenging periods, often bouncing back with strong performances at crucial events. Their highlight includes a podium finish of 3rd place at The International 2023.
List of LGD Gaming’s Achievements at The International:
- TI2 (2012): 3rd place
- TI3 (2013): 9th-12th place
- TI4 (2014): 5th-6th place
- TI5 (2015): 3rd place
- TI6 (2016): 9th-12th place
- TI7 (2017): 4th place
- TI8 (2018): 2nd place
- TI9 (2019): 3rd place
- TI10 (2021): 2nd place
- TI11 (2022): 5th-6th place
- TI12 (2023): 3rd place
Other Absences at TI 2024
LGD Gaming’s absence from TI2024 adds to a list of notable teams missing from the prestigious event this year. Dota 2 statistics expert Ben “Noxville” Steenhuisen highlighted that LGD Gaming, Evil Geniuses, and Fnatic, all among the top teams with the highest TI attendances, won’t be competing.
Only Team Liquid has qualified thus far, while Team Secret faces a challenging Western Europe Qualifier. This marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape of Dota 2, with long-standing powerhouses making way for new contenders at The International 2024.
Conclusion
LGD Gaming’s failure to qualify for TI2024 breaks their remarkable 11-year streak, marking a significant shift in Dota 2 esports dynamics and leaving fans and analysts alike reflecting on the end of an era in competitive gaming.
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