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During a recent conversation with Fortune Korea, Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok shared his thoughts on his remarkable endurance over the past 13 years since he first entered the LCK.
The interview, which has been translated into English, delves into his professional journey, reflections on the significance of age in esports, and the driving force behind his continuous competitiveness and sharpness.
The turning point in 2018: doubts about his future
The interview highlights a pivotal moment in Faker’s career: during the 2018 Worlds, he began to question his abilities as he felt that age might be affecting his performance. Despite winning his third World Championship at that time, with previous victories in 2013 and 2015, Faker found himself pondering the lifespan of esports careers.
The fundamental question he faced was whether esports careers were inherently short-lived.
“At that time, there was a prevailing belief that esports careers had a short shelf life, and I felt trapped in that narrative. However, I started to wonder: Is it fair to be sidelined simply because of my age? Can I defy this notion? Can I continue to excel and prove myself beyond expectations? That was the moment I intensified my training regimen,”
Faker’s major achievements followed his uncertain period
Subsequently, Faker went on to secure three more World Championships, solidifying his status as the back-to-back-to-back-to-back world champion with T1. Despite finishing as the runner-up in the 2022 World final, losing to his long-time rival Deft, Faker continued to demonstrate his resilience and skill accumulated over the years.
One of the standout moments in his journey occurred in 2023 when Faker faced a wrist injury, leading to Poby temporarily filling his position during the regular split. However, after a period of recovery, Faker returned to lead T1 to the World final qualifications, culminating in another championship victory. This triumph stood out as one of the proudest moments in his illustrious career.
The looming question remains: can T1 and Faker replicate their success this year?
As the team navigates through the spring split of the 2026 season, they have faced challenges, including a notable loss to KT and a victory against Hanwha Life. Despite an inconsistent start, all eyes are on T1 to see if they can recreate the magic of their remarkable 2023 Worlds journey.
Continuous learning sharpens the GOAT
Faker’s unwavering determination is attributed to his commitment to staying mentally sharp and healthy in an industry known for burnout. He dedicates time to reading diverse subjects, including psychology, to rejuvenate his mind and gain perspective away from the game. This approach proved valuable during the recent Worlds finals, where he provided impromptu therapy sessions to his teammate amidst intense competition. To witness this moment, refer to a clip from three months ago.
Overall, Faker’s unique approach continues to yield results.
While he may not hold the title of the best in his position, given the emergence of younger talents in the esports landscape, Faker’s consistency and longevity set him apart. His enduring legacy extends beyond the game, as evidenced by his recognition in a Goyard advertisement and his cultural impact in Korea. He has truly defied expectations and solidified his status as a gaming legend. Well done, Faker.