19Faker Unveiled: 11 Jaw-Dropping Facts You Didn’t Know About the LoL Legend
Faker, the Immortal Demon King, reigns supreme as the greatest player in League of Legends history. His unmatched skill, relentless dedication, and remarkable humility have solidified his legendary status. As the star midlaner for T1, Faker has shattered records and captivated hearts worldwide.
But there’s so much more to this esports titan than meets the eye. Beyond the well-known accolades and championship titles, Faker’s journey is filled with intriguing stories and surprising tidbits that even his most devoted fans might not be aware of. What does it take to become a living legend? What sacrifices has he made along the way?
Get ready to delve into the lesser-known aspects of Faker’s life and career. From his unexpected hobbies to his incredible training routines, here are 11 fascinating facts about Faker that will make you see him in a whole new light. Keep reading to discover the secrets behind the gaming god!
Who is Faker?
Lee Sang-hyeok, better known by his in-game name Faker, is a South Korean professional League of Legends player. Born on May 7, 1996, in Seoul, South Korea, Faker quickly rose to prominence in the esports world. His journey began in 2013 when he joined SK Telecom T1 (now T1). Faker is widely regarded as the greatest player in the history of League of Legends, thanks to his exceptional skill, strategic mind, and numerous championships. With a career spanning over a decade, he has become a legend in the esports community.
1. Faker’s Rise to Stardom
Faker was born Lee Sang-hyeok on May 7, 1996, in Seoul, South Korea. His story to become the greatest League of Legends player started in 2013 with the team SK Telecom T1, which is today known as T1. From the start, he was destined to be great, and he really was. In fact, he led his team to victory in the World Championship during his rookie year. That success was just the inception of a successful career.
2. No Longer Just a Player, But an Owner
In 2020, Faker signed a new three-year contract with T1, but this was by no means your ordinary contract extension. In addition to that extension as a player, he also became part-owner of the organization called T1 Entertainment & Sports. This really underscores his commitment to the organization and vision for the future. He has also expressed that, upon retirement, he will be open to working for the leadership team at T1, so he maintains his relationship with T1, and his expertise will be upheld within the organization for many more years.
3. The Best Brand Loyalty
Faker’s brand loyalty is considered the best in esports. He celebrated his 10th-year anniversary with the team in 2023, making him the longest-serving player with one team in the history of League of Legends. This work ethic has been one of the reasons that T1 is as hugely successful as it is and has set him up to be in the conversation for the greatest competitive gamer ever. And he isn’t slowing down at all, having since re-signed with the team until at least 2025.
4. Healthy Eater with a Sense of Humor
After his win at the 2015 World Championship, fans were laughing and jeering as they saw Faker eat his share of broccoli on stage. The strange incident was his reply to a fan’s comment that he looked like broccoli. This playfulness, perhaps unexpected from such a professional, makes Faker all the more human and one of a kind.
5. Multi-Talented and Versatile
Although best known for his prowess as a midlaner, Faker has also shown versatility in playing other roles. If forced to play an off-role, Faker prefers the jungle. Very frequently, fans can see him playing different champions and roles during his solo queue games to showcase his vast skill set.
6. Creative Aliases
Faker’s creative aliases are a true mark of his strategic playstyle. One of his best-known alternative accounts, however, is “Hide on bush,” based on the aforementioned tendency for the jungler to stay hidden in the bushes, waiting for an opportunity to execute an ambush. Versions of this alias can be found all over multiple servers. It just goes to show how he infuses some playfulness into his tactical mind.
7. Going Skinless
In- gameTime skins are popular with players, but not with Faker. He is a type of player who speaks with gameplay, and for his level of skill and highlights on flashy plays, it really captures people to watch his games. This minimalist style is merely one further reflection of the focus and commitment he maintains in mastering his game.
8. Multimedia Star
Faker’s fame goes beyond the scope of eSports. In 2018, he made an appearance on the Korean variety show “Hello Counselor,” and his humble attitude and jokes captured the viewers’ hearts. The fact that he was in the movie with K-pop idols Seulgi and Joy of Red Velvet only proved how big and sensational he was.
9. High School Connection
Faker finished high school in the same school as one of the LCK’s top professional gamers, Kim “Deft” Hyuk-kyu. Both players debuted in the League of Legends Champions Korea, or LCK, in 2013, and they have been pitched against each other a number of times in professional matches. Their rivalry and friendship liven up the LCK.
10. Record-breaking Accomplishments
With a professional career that has stretched to over ten years now, Faker has attained multiple records with the League of Legends game. First and only player to ever win four World Championships—he is arguably the best player of all time. In winning this tournament, he broke the record as the oldest winner in its history at 27, proving that experience and skill can outlast youth.
11. Surprisingly Few Pentakills
While being renowned for his overly aggressive playstyle, Faker could only secure one pentakill throughout his professional career. This rare feat was performed in the 2015 LCK Spring Split when he completely crushed NaJin e-mFire playing as LeBlanc. This statistic goes out to show the respect and wariness other players have of Faker.
12. Faker’s Gaming Skills Helped Him Achieve Military Exemption
All male citizens in South Korea must complete a compulsory period in the military. High achievements as an athlete or artist, however, allow one to be exempt from military service. Faker and his team achieved this exemption in September 2023 by winning a gold medal at the Asian Games. That victory not just supplemented his long list of glory but also opened up new avenues in the form of continuing further uninterrupted in his pursuits of esports.
Faker’s Everlasting Legacy
Faker’s impact in the world of eSports has been second to none. From his aggressive playstyle and dominance of midlane in the past, he is now part-owner of T1, continuously pushing the line on what’s possible for him in competitive gaming. His humility, passion, and indelible skill have made him an adored figure inside and out of the eSports community.
Conclusion
Faker’s career in League of Legends so far is a fable of talent, hard work, and dedication. From humble beginnings to being a part-owner of T1, he has only continued to set new bars on what being a professional gamer means. Fun facts that give us all a little more insight into the life of the legend himself, the one and only Faker—the many sides to what makes him the greatest of all time.
FAQs
What is Faker’s real name?
Faker’s real name is Lee Sang-hyeok. Known to his fans as Faker, Lee Sang-hyeok has become a household name in the world of esports and League of Legends.
How many World Championships has Faker won?
Faker has clinched the World Championship title four times, showcasing his unparalleled skill and consistency at the highest level of competition.
Why is Faker called the “Unkillable Demon King”?
The moniker “Unkillable Demon King” originated from a Chinese player who was awestruck by Faker’s elusive playstyle. The nickname perfectly captures his ability to dodge death and dominate his opponents, cementing his fearsome reputation.
Does Faker use in-game skins?
Interestingly, Faker almost never uses in-game skins. He believes that his natural mastery and unique style of play are the best ways to express himself in the game, foregoing the visual customizations that many other players favor.
Has Faker ever played other roles besides midlane?
While Faker is predominantly known as a midlaner, he has expressed interest in playing other roles, particularly jungle. This versatility speaks to his deep understanding of the game and his exceptional skill level.
Does Faker currently have any role with T1 beyond being a player?
Yes, Faker is more than just a player for T1; he is also a co-owner of the team. His long-term commitment to T1 includes plans to transition into a leadership role once he retires from professional play, ensuring his legacy and influence continue within the organization.
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