Dota 2’s The International 2023: A Surprising Success for Chinese Team Azure Ray
The International 2023, Dota 2’s biggest event, recently came to an end, leaving Chinese fans in awe. In a surprising turn of events, both of China’s representatives achieved a top-four finish. What made this achievement even more remarkable was the unexpected success of Azure Ray (AR), a team composed of retired players, including one who was convinced to come out of retirement.
The Formation of Azure Ray
Azure Ray was founded during the Dota 2 season by Lu “Somnus” Yao, who found it difficult to stay away from the competitive scene. Eager to satisfy his competitive itch, Somnus quickly gathered a team of legends, including Xu “fy” Linsen.
Despite their humble beginnings, AR quickly rose to the top in their region, surpassing the expectations of fans and players alike. During fy’s exit interview at TI 2023, he was asked about his personal satisfaction with their season and whether he had anticipated this level of success when they formed the team at the end of the 2023 DPC season.
“I don’t know, I got dragged into playing TI,” fy jokingly said. However, it has been revealed that this was actually true.
A Passionate Return
Somnus, fy, and Yang “Chalice” Shenyi entertained the idea of making a comeback to competitive Dota 2. Considering their time away from the scene leading up to May 2023, the trio decided not to ask for a salary while joining Azure Ray.
AR proved to be more than just a team; they were a group of friends who wanted to enjoy playing Dota 2 on the biggest stage. Even in defeat, it was evident that the members of AR were having a great time both inside and outside the player booth.
Azure Ray’s Journey
In the past, Somnus, fy, and Chalice had reached the finals of The International together in 2018, securing a third-place finish in 2019. Their near misses at glory eventually led to their disbandment. However, their time apart allowed them to grow and overcome devastating losses in their careers.
Azure Ray may not have won The International 2023, but Dota 2 fans were thrilled to see these Uncrowned Kings of the game enjoying themselves on the grandest stage.
Dota 2, The International 2023, Chinese team, Azure Ray, retired players, success, comeback, friends, competition, triumph, stage