T1 will prioritize Faker’s COVID-19 recovery to prepare for the upcoming LCK matches.
2023 LoL World Champion team T1 has confirmed that Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok tested positive for COVID-19. The announcement was made on August 5 on X (formerly Twitter). Faker previously tested positive for COVID-19 in April 2022, shortly after winning the LCK Spring 2022.
The Unkillable Demon King and other T1 players were scheduled to attend the WORLDS 23 CHAMPIONS SKIN SHOWCASE event at LoL PARK earlier today, but he was replaced by the team's coach, Roach. The other T1 players attended the event, indicating that aside from Faker, none tested positive for COVID-19.
The WORLDS 23 CHAMPIONS SKIN SHOWCASE is a collaborative event between T1 and the LCK, allowing fans to see T1 players use their Worlds 2023 skins for the first time. This event was supposed to mark Faker's first public appearance since a post-game incident against Gen.G.
Fans concerned about Faker's condition
A LoL professional since 2013, this is not the first time Faker has had to miss an important event. Last year, Faker took a break in the middle of the LCK Summer 2023 to recover from a hand injury, a crucial period for qualifying for Worlds 2023. During his absence, T1 Academy Mid Laner Yoon “Poby” Sung-won filled in until Faker returned to the stage after three weeks.
Recently, concerns about Faker's condition have resurfaced after he was seen headbutting a wall, allegedly in distress following a loss to their rivals Gen.G. The team has been under intense scrutiny and pressure, especially after their victories in Worlds 2023 and the recent EWC 2024.
Additionally, Faker was recently inducted into the LoL Hall of Fame and celebrated with his own "Faker Temple" pop-up event, further heightening expectations and pressure to the GOAT.
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Faker might miss upcoming LCK matches
The LCK is set to enter its 8th week, with T1's next match scheduled for August 9 against NS. It remains unclear if Faker will participate in that match.
Currently, T1 is ranked fourth in the overall standings, securing a relatively safe spot for the Playoffs. While most T1 fans encourage Faker to rest and prepare for the Playoffs, some are concerned about the possibility of him missing Week 8 of LCK 2024 against NS and BRO, especially given the team's struggles the last time they were without their oldest player.
Stay tuned on esports.gg and T1 official channels for update regarding Faker's condition.