In recent years, Wings has become one of the most successful teams in Dota 2’s history. They have won multiple major championships and set numerous records, cementing their place as one of the game’s greatest teams.
But what if things had gone differently?
What if Wings had disbanded before The International 6 (TI6)?
In this article, we will explore the events leading up to TI6 and the factors that almost led to the end of one of the most beloved Dota 2 teams in history.
The Road to TI6
In 2015, Wings was a relatively unknown team in the Dota 2 scene. They had made their mark on the European qualifiers for TI5 and were determined to take it to the next level. However, things were not easy. The team struggled with internal conflicts and lacked direction, leading them to miss out on qualifying for TI6.
But fate had other plans for Wings. In February 2016, a group of investors approached the team’s management with an offer to buy out their contract from the organization they were under. This was a rare opportunity for Wings to gain financial stability and independence, something they desperately needed at the time.
The Turning Point
With the investors on board, Wings set their sights on TI6. They recruited a new coach in Nico "G2T" Gaukroff, who brought with him a fresh perspective and renewed energy. The team also hired a sports psychologist to help them overcome their internal struggles and improve their mental game.
The first few months of the season were rocky for Wings. They struggled to find their footing and often found themselves at the bottom of the leaderboards. But they refused to give up, and slowly but surely, they began to turn things around.
By the time they reached TI6 qualifiers, Wings had become a force to be reckoned with. They dominated the European scene, winning multiple major championships and setting numerous records along the way. And when they finally made it to TI6, they knew they were ready for anything.
The Triumph at TI6
At TI6, Wings was a dominant force in Group Stage, winning every single one of their matches and finishing first in their group. They then went on to win all their games in the Lower Bracket before facing off against Team Secret in the Grand Finals.
The match between Wings and Team Secret was one for the ages, with both teams playing at an incredible level. But in the end, it was Wings who emerged victorious, winning 3-2 in a thrilling series. The crowd erupted in cheers as Wings was lifted onto shoulders and carried around the stage in celebration.
The Legacy of Wings
Wings’ success at TI6 is now remembered as one of the greatest moments in Dota 2 history. But what makes their story even more remarkable is the fact that they almost didn’t make it there at all.
The events leading up to TI6 were a testament to the resilience and determination of Wings. Despite facing internal struggles and missing out on qualifying for TI6, they never gave up and continued to push forward. And when they finally got their chance, they seized it with both hands.
Wings’ legacy is a reminder that success in Dota 2 (or any other competitive sport) is not just about talent or skill. It’s also about perseverance, teamwork, and the will to succeed. Wings proved that even in the face of adversity, with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
FAQs
Q: What was the turning point for Wings before TI6?
A: The arrival of investors who bought out their contract from their previous organization provided Wings with financial stability and independence, which allowed them to focus on improving their team and ultimately qualifying for TI6.
Q: How did Wings perform at TI6?
A: Wings dominated Group Stage, winning every single one of their matches, and finished first in their group. They then went on to win all their games in the Lower Bracket before facing off against Team Secret in the Grand Finals, where they won 3-2 in a thrilling series.
Q: What is Wings’ legacy?
A: Wings’ success at TI6 is remembered as one of the greatest moments in Dota 2 history and a testament to the resilience and determination of the team. Their legacy is a reminder that success in competitive sports requires perseverance, teamwork, and the will to succeed.