Roses have become a defining symbol in the decade-long career of Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok, the renowned professional League of Legends (LoL) player from South Korea. Let’s explore why roses hold such significance for Faker and his fans.
**Background: The Origin of Roses and Faker**
The story begins in 2013 when Faker joined the team SK Telecom T1 as a substitute jungler. During one of his early games, he chose the champion Gragas, whose ultimate ability is called "R" – the Roman numeral for the number four. The number four holds great importance to Faker, as it represents his birth date (July 4).
In a playful tribute to this coincidence, fans started gifting Faker roses on stream, as the Korean word for ‘four’ is ‘sa’, which sounds similar to the Korean term for ‘roses’ – ‘ggos’. This tradition has continued ever since.
**The Symbolism:
Roses and Faker’s Achievements**
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Four World Championships: Faker has won an incredible four LoL World Championships with SK Telecom T1 (2013, 2015, 2016, and 2019). His love for roses has only grown stronger with each victory.
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Four MVP Awards: Faker has been named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the LoL World Championship a record-breaking four times – in 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2019. The roses symbolize his exceptional skill and leadership on the Rift.
**The Fan Culture: Roses for Faker**
Fans have taken this tradition of gifting Faker with roses to new heights. They gather in large groups during live events, presenting him with bouquets as a sign of appreciation and admiration. This heartfelt gesture has created a beautiful connection between Faker and his fanbase, making the rose an enduring symbol of their bond.
**Conclusion: Roses – A Lasting Tribute to Faker’s Legacy**
From humble beginnings as a tribute to a coincidental numerology, roses have become a powerful symbol in the world of League of Legends and beyond. They represent Faker’s achievements, his connection with his fans, and the unwavering dedication that has fueled his career for over ten years. So, the next time you think about Faker or the world of esports, let the beautiful image of roses remind you of this extraordinary journey.