The legendary player was very open about his decision both before and during TI11, saying that he wanted to start a new chapter in his life and that this event would be his last regardless of the outcome. In his original announcement, which was linked to a breakdown of what happened during the TI10 grand final that LGD lost to Team Spirit, Faith_bian noted that it was a decision he had made shortly after that event and that TI11 would be his last effort to raise the Aegis of Champions once again.
However, after a slow start, LGD could not find their footing in the playoffs, only winning one of their three heats and being eliminated by Team Aster in a clash of top Chinese rosters. The result was LGD’s worst finish in any edition of The International since TI6, as they were in a tie for fifth place. Despite falling short of the heights the team aspired to in the last two seasons, Faith_bian is pleased with the overall result.
“After TI10, I decided that this would be my last year competing in the professional Dota scene. Now, looking back on my entire career, I am very happy that I had the unique experience of fighting against all opponents with my teammates by my side,” Faith_bian said on Weibo. “I am very grateful to have had these trusted teammates throughout my entire career, and I really appreciate the time we have spent together. I haven’t regretted this year, and I’m very happy about it.”
He is now the second Dota legend to retire after T11, following fellow Chinese stage partner Somnus, who retired last week when Royal Never Give Up was eliminated. This won’t be the last big name to retire, as MATUMBAMAN also plans to hang up his lucky pants once Team Liquid finishes competing this season.
Faith_bian has been one of Dota’s top competitors since 2014, and even before joining LGD he had already achieved the game’s highest honor by lifting the Aegis TI6 with a Wings Gaming roster that is considered among the best to ever play the game. Now, he is stepping away from Dota at the age of 24 and with career earnings likely to exceed $4 million to pursue other ventures, though he doesn’t entirely rule out returning.
“From 2014 to 2022, thank you for all your help and encouragement, thank you for your kindness and passion.” Faith_bian said. “I hope you all got to know the spirit of esports through me, and I hope you all can enjoy esports itself. I’m sure we will meet again if we are destined.“
This last detail could be interpreted as an open door to a possible return if he gets the competitive itch, which brings many retired esports pros back to play after taking a break. But it could also be their way of thanking the fans and wishing them well on a path that could see them in the future. In any case, PSG.LGD will look to fill one of the biggest voids imaginable once the offseason and post-November 11 roster shakeup begins.
With his retirement, Faith_bian leaves as TI champion, Major champion, and with 1,464 professional games played with a winning percentage approaching 60% in 87 unique heroes. In addition, 1,455 of those games were played alongside teammate Zhang “y`” Yiping, ranking them second all-time in professional games played as a duo.Even though PSG.LGD is no longer playing at TI11, the tournament still has a lot of exciting matches left to be played. If you are interested in Dota 2 betting, make sure to check out our page where there are odds for you to enjoy!
