China Holds Record Low Player Count for TI9
China has the highest number of competitors from a single country for The International 2019, with 18 players. However, this is actually a record low for any edition of TI. It’s disappointing news for fans of Chinese Dota, especially since this is the first International held in China.
Record Set at TI5 and TI8
The previous record for the most players from a single country was set at TI5 and TI8, with 27 Chinese players attending each event. Interestingly, both TI5 and TI8 were won by Western teams against Chinese teams. Evil Geniuses defeated CDEC at TI5, while OG made a comeback against PSG.LGD in 2018.
Newbee’s North American Roster
Additonally, Newbee, one of China’s most renowned organizations, will be represented at TI9 by a North American roster. The main Chinese squad failed to qualify for the event, so the ex-Forward Gaming team will be playing in Newbee’s colors instead.
Other Top Countries
Following China, the Philippines takes the second spot for the second year in a row, with nine players attending TI. Sweden is in third place with six players, and legendary Swedish organization Alliance will be making a comeback with an overhauled roster. Malaysia and Russia round out the top five countries, with five players from each country attending.
Despite the low player count for China, there is still hope for Chinese Dota. With 18 competitors and the advantage of playing on home turf, perhaps this will be the lucky year for a Chinese team to bring home the Aegis.
The International 2019 will begin on Aug. 15 and the grand finals will take place on Aug. 25, regardless of the teams involved.
For a full list of players attending The International and their nationalities, you can check out Liquipedia’s event page for TI9.
The International 2019, China, player count, TI5, TI8, Dota 2, Newbee, North American roster, Philippines, Sweden, Malaysia, Russia, Chinese Dota