LGD Gaming, the dominant force in Chinese Dota 2, suffered a heartbreaking defeat at The International 2023, extending their unfortunate streak at the tournament. Despite a strong performance throughout the year, LGD was eliminated by Gaimin Gladiators in the lower bracket finals.
After the retirement of Faith_bian and Ame’s extended break, LGD rebuilt their roster around NothingToSay and y’ for the 2023 season. While they established themselves as the best team in China, their global impact was limited until their fifth-place finish at the Bali Major. They carried this momentum into TI12, dominating the group stage and reaching the upper bracket finals undefeated. However, their journey came to an abrupt halt against Team Spirit.
Team Spirit handed LGD their first loss of the tournament, reminiscent of their defeat in the TI10 grand finals. This defeat pushed LGD into the lower bracket finals against Gaimin Gladiators. In two decisive victories, Gaimin outplayed LGD, with Quinn’s exceptional performances on Necrophos and Queen of Pain securing their spot in the grand finals.
Gaimin’s victory marks another disappointment for LGD, as they continue their long-standing drought of not claiming the coveted Aegis. Since their first appearance at TI2 in 2012, LGD has consistently attended every iteration of the tournament. They have achieved remarkable success, never finishing lower than ninth place and boasting the most podium finishes in Dota history, with six top-three placements.
Despite the disappointment, y’ expressed gratitude for the support from Chinese and international fans. However, the loss weighs heavily on the team, especially the missed opportunity to reach the grand finals and experience the overwhelming cheers once again.
Looking ahead, there are uncertainties surrounding LGD, particularly regarding Ame’s future with the team. It remains to be seen if he will make a competitive return in 2024 or explore other options with a different roster.
LGD Gaming at The International
| Year | Placement |
|——|———–|
| 2012 | 3rd |
| 2013 | 3rd |
| 2014 | 2nd |
| 2015 | 3rd |
| 2016 | 2nd |
| 2017 | 3rd |
| 2018 | 9th-12th |
| 2019 | 4th |
| 2020 | 4th |
| 2021 | 2nd |
| 2022 | 3rd |
| 2023 | 3rd |
Note: The table above showcases LGD Gaming’s placements at each edition of The International.
Source: DOTESPORTS
