It Is Possible: Faker's Inspiring Comeback Story

Nov 15, 2024

Editor's Note: In the “It is Possible” column, we highlight the stories of leaders and trailblazers who have overcome challenges to achieve greatness. Faker’s inspiring comeback in 2024 demonstrates the power of perseverance, resilience, and the unshakable belief that, with passion and determination, anything is possible.

In the ever-evolving world of esports, few names have stood the test of time like Sang-hyeok Lee, better known as Faker. Hailing from Seoul, South Korea, Faker’s rise to fame in League of Legends (LoL) was swift and undeniable. Widely regarded as one of the greatest gamers of all time, his journey is not only a tale of raw talent but also of resilience, determination, and the drive to keep going, even after facing the toughest challenges.

Faker’s journey began in 2013 when he joined the South Korean team T1 (then known as SK Telecom T1). At just 17, he stunned the esports world with his incredible mechanics, game sense, and fearlessness. In his debut year, Faker led T1 to victory at the 2013 League of Legends World Championship, quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. His legendary outplays, such as his famous Zed vs. Zed duel against KT Bullets’ Ryu, instantly turned him into a global phenomenon, capturing the imagination of millions of fans and inspiring aspiring gamers around the world.

I didn’t expect myself to go pro at first. I simply wanted to get better. But I was able to develop because of my love for the game and the desire to keep improving.

With Faker at the helm, T1 went on to dominate the competitive League of Legends scene, clinching the World Championship titles in 2015 and 2016. By then, Faker wasn’t just a champion—he was an icon, often praised for his humility, dedication, and unwavering love for the game. His journey to the top was swift and staggering, an inspiration to anyone dreaming of reaching the pinnacle of their field.

Reflecting on this early success, Faker once said, "I didn’t expect myself to go pro at first. I simply wanted to get better. But I was able to develop because of my love for the game and the desire to keep improving." His rapid rise demonstrated that talent, combined with an unwavering drive to improve, could lead to monumental achievements.

However, even legends face challenges. Following T1’s victory in 2016, the team began to struggle, facing stiffer competition as new, ambitious teams emerged on the global stage. For the next few years, Faker and T1 experienced a series of ups and downs—narrow losses, missed opportunities, and unfulfilled expectations.

In 2017, T1 made it to the World Championship Finals again, only to suffer a heartbreaking defeat. This period tested Faker’s resilience as the pressure mounted. Faker later described this period as a test of his mental endurance: "Losing made me doubt myself, but it also gave me a reason to improve. It pushed me to grow not just as a player, but as a person." Some critics even began to question if he could continue his streak or if his best days were behind him. Despite the losses and the pressure to reclaim his former glory, Faker never wavered in his dedication to the game. He continued to train rigorously, often practicing for hours a day, refining his skills and embracing the challenges that came his way.

Yet, Faker’s story is not one of giving up. Even in the face of years without a major championship victory, he remained committed to his craft. "In esports, you have to face failure and learn from it," he said in an interview. His philosophy has always been that failure is simply a stepping stone on the road to success, a lesson he learned through countless losses, but also through a deep love for the game.

2023 marked a major turning point in Faker’s journey. After years of close calls and moments that tested his endurance, Faker and T1 returned to form, making their way to the top once more. His dedication and mental toughness paid off as he reclaimed his place among the world’s best. Faker’s incredible comeback reminded everyone that true greatness is not just about winning—it's about resilience, persistence, and the ability to rise again after facing setbacks.

Then, in 2024, Faker solidified his legacy once more, leading T1 to another championship win. After years of hard work, adaptation, and growth, he stood at the top once again. This victory wasn’t just about reclaiming a title—it symbolized the power of perseverance, the importance of staying true to one’s passion, and the indomitable spirit that defines a true champion. "Being able to come back after so long shows that if you love something deeply enough, and you work hard for it, you can achieve greatness again," he said. Faker’s return to the top showed his fans that even after years of challenges, it’s always possible to reclaim one’s glory with persistence and passion.

Lessons from Faker's Journey

Faker’s journey is more than just an esports success story—it’s a powerful reminder that obstacles can be overcome, and that a passion pursued relentlessly can yield incredible results. His story is a testament to the “It Is Possible” philosophy. No matter how tough the competition or how challenging the path, Faker’s career shows that true dedication and resilience can lead to extraordinary achievements. He has inspired countless fans around the world, both inside and outside of gaming, proving that greatness is achieved not just through talent, but through hard work, humility, and the courage to face adversity head-on.

Faker’s story continues to inspire a new generation of players who look up to him not just as a champion, but as someone who embodies the belief that with enough dedication, “it is possible” to rise, fall, and rise again to even greater heights.