Gabe Newell’s deadpan wit stole the show at The International 2025, as the Valve co-founder reminded fans why he still plays Dota 2 every day.
Dota 2's saviour Gabe Newell delivered an unforgettable opening ceremony speech at The International 14. The Valve President's Welcome to the International speech remains a long-term tradition that even endured the audience-free COVID19 pandemic TI110 of 2020.
For 2025, Gabe Newell delivered his opening speech with his classic deadpan expression while expressing how his love for Dota 2 has endured despite the odd hater.
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Gabe Newell - Welcome to the International (2025)
"Fourteen years ago we held the first International in Cologne, Germany. For me that first International was awesome. It was awesome to see the skill of the players, and the enthusiasm of the community," said Gabe Newell. "Before that International I really enjoyed the game, but after the International I loved the game."
"It's not just the game I love but the community. Sure people talk sh*t at me in chat, and about once a week people say 'hey noob, uninstall the game and *****'. But that's really about their enthusiasm for the game, and the energy that they bring. That's why after all these years, I still play Dota every day."
"Now we're back in Germany once more, to cheer and celebrate again. Oh man, this is going to be so fun (in German). To all the Dota fans who've been with us from Day 1, those who've joined us along the way, and to any of you tuning in for the first time... welcome to The International."
Valve co-founder's love for Dota 2 is well documented, with one employee even repeating in an interview with him that Gabe Newell's motto is "Why play any other game when Dota2 exists".
Gabe Newell has been a good sport when it comes to giving a bit of fan service to Dota 2 fans over the years. For example, back in 2017 he released his own announcer pack. His comments for this year's The International 14 Welcome to the International, went down like a house on fire.
