4 Players/ Teams Who Got Retired From DOTA 2 In 2023
The year 2023 has been a bittersweet one for the Dota 2 community, as it witnessed the retirement of several iconic players and teams. These legends have left an indelible mark on the competitive scene, captivating audiences with their skills, passion, and dedication. As we bid them adieu, let’s take a moment to celebrate their illustrious careers in DOTA 2 and the impact they have had on the game.
Chinese Dota 2 Midlaner Paparazi Takes His Final Bow
Zhang “Paparazi” Chengjun, the talented midlane player from China, bid farewell to the competitive gaming scene in 2023. Adored by fans not only in his home country but also worldwide, Paparazi’s journey in Dota 2 began in 2015. Known for his exceptional midlane prowess and versatility, he has been an integral part of the competitive scene for eight years.
Xtreme Gaming announced his retirement on Weibo, revealing that Paparazi had requested retirement after The International 11 (TI11) concluded in October. Despite the shortage of midlaners in China, he continued to grace the stage until now. His departure leaves a void in the Dota 2 landscape, and fans will forever cherish the memories of his remarkable performances.
ETERNALENVY: An End of an Era
Jacky “EternaLEnVy” Mao, a legendary figure in the Dota 2 scene, announced his retirement from everything related to Dota 2. For old-school players and fans, EternaLEnVy’s name is synonymous with skill and competitive spirit. During his prime years from 2012 to 2016, he was part of Dota’s elite and a contender at major events.
However, recent times have seen a decline in his career, and the passion to be a competitive player seems to have waned. With this decision, EternaLEnVy marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
Fnatic Bids Adieu to the Pro Scene
Fnatic, a prominent esports organization, shocked the Dota 2 community by announcing its departure from the professional scene in 2023. The team decided to skip the Dota Pro Circuit 2023 seasons and concluded its participation in Season 14 of the BTS Pro Series.
Fnatic’s decision came after they lost a slot in the first division of the 2023 DPC for Southeast Asia and finished at the bottom of the standings. While the organization has not specified when they plan to return, their fans remain hopeful for a triumphant comeback in the future. Fnatic has been a powerhouse in the Dota 2 scene for years, and their absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt.
K1 Hector: A Break for Mental Health
Héctor “K1” Rodríguez, renowned as one of the world’s best carry players, took a brave step in 2023 by announcing a temporary break from competitive Dota 2. As part of the Beastcoast team, K1 had been showcasing his exceptional skills and determination in the Dota Pro Circuit South America (SA) Tour 3: Division I.
With an impressive second-place standing, the team had been competing against formidable opponents. However, K1 prioritized his mental health and overall well-being, recognizing the importance of taking care of oneself amidst the pressures of competitive gaming. His decision serves as a reminder of the significance of mental health awareness in the gaming community.
As the Dota 2 community bids farewell to these players and teams, we celebrate their remarkable careers and the joy they brought to millions of fans worldwide. Their departure marks the end of an era but also paves the way for new talent and new stories to unfold in the competitive landscape.
As we move into the future, we carry with us the memories of these legends and the impact they have had on the game we love. Thank you to Paparazi, EternaLEnVy, Fnatic, and K1 Hector for their contributions to Dota 2, and may their journeys continue to inspire the next generation of players.
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