Team Spirit Claims Victory at Riyadh Masters 2023
In a historic event, Team Spirit emerged as the champions of Dota 2 at Riyadh Masters 2023, marking the biggest non-The International tournament in the game’s history. This victory also ended Gaimin Gladiators’ dominance, as they failed to secure a major tournament win this year for the first time after winning all three Dota Pro Circuit Majors and both DreamLeague seasons.
Spirit showcased their prowess by putting up an impressive performance in the group stage before dominating the upper bracket. Their remarkable run included defeating regional rival BetBoom and securing two consecutive wins against the strong Team Liquid.
After being defeated by Spirit in the upper bracket finals, Liquid swiftly defeated Talon Esports in the lower bracket finals. This win secured Liquid’s fifth grand finals appearance of the season but unfortunately ended in yet another second-place finish.
Although Liquid managed to secure victory in the first game of the finals, it turned out to be their only win, with Spirit dominating the remaining matches.
Spirit’s victory was highlighted by Yatoro’s outstanding performance, particularly in game four where he dominated as Terrorblade and led Spirit to an unstoppable win. With GGs being called just 42 minutes into the game, Spirit claimed the $5 million prize.
“It’s cool to win, that’s all,” said Larl, a member of Team Spirit, as the team lifted the trophy.
This win is a significant achievement for Spirit, as it marks their biggest triumph since the Arlington Major in August and their first tournament win since the addition of Larl at the start of the 2023 DPC season. However, it also sheds light on one of Valve’s main concerns regarding competitive Dota.
In terms of prize money, Spirit’s single win at Riyadh Masters earned them $5 million, while Gaimin Gladiators, who won all three DPC Majors, only earned a combined $600,000. With the prize pool details of TI12 currently uncertain and the absence of a battle pass to support it, this victory could potentially ignite a true rivalry in the competitive Dota circuit.
Talon’s Mikoto was named the MVP of Riyadh Masters, giving recognition to the sole Southeast Asian team that made it to the playoffs. Talon eliminated notable teams like Gaimin and 9Pandas. Yatoro placed second in the MVP race, followed by Zai and Boxi in third and fourth place, respectively.
Following the event, teams like Spirit, Gaimin, and Liquid will take a break before gearing up for The International in October. Meanwhile, Team Secret, OG, and other teams will head home to prepare for the TI Qualifiers starting on August 17.