Movistar R7 made history at the second day of Worlds 2024 Play-Ins by becoming the first Latin American team to win a best-of series at a World Championship. They achieved this in a thrilling 2-1 victory over the LCS’ 100 Thieves, instantly sparking a new rivalry that will add excitement to the anticipated 2025 Americas merger.
Image credit: Riot Games
A seasoned player in both the LCS and LLA, top laner Summit played a crucial role in R7’s victory. We had the opportunity to interview the Korean player after the match.
Esports.net: Congratulations on making history for the LLA.
What are your immediate thoughts?
Summit: Yeah, I just found out that we were the first one to ever make it happen at Worlds. It’s a big honor and it feels very special, and I have mixed feelings of everything good possible.
With your own past history with the LCS, was it especially satisfying to beat a North American team today?
Summit: I mean, obviously winning makes me happy every single time, but it made me a little more happier today, I think. I also put a little more effort into the preparation as well. So it felt really nice.
Did you enjoy the LCS vs LLA angle to the series, given the upcoming merger?
Summit: Yeah, actually, I looked into that a lot, and I think it’s a good change for everyone. I believe it’s beneficial for all parties involved, making the teams stronger and ultimately solidifying the league itself. So I’m excited for it.
Credit: LoL Esports
Lee Jones: Your top lane matchup with Sniper was billed as the one to watch.
How did you find it facing him?
Summit: I found out that he’s a very young player, he’s a rookie, but he played better than I expected, so kudos to him.
Also, he plays very aggressively in a very good way.
Lee Jones: You’ve had a unique career path having played in Korea, China, NA and now LATAM.
When are you coming to Europe?
I want to go to Europe, but I feel like European top laners are very strong, so I’m not sure if I have a chance to compete with them.
What are your expectations ahead of facing GAM tomorrow?
Last year on Team Liquid, my last match at Worlds was against GAM. I lost to them and got eliminated.
After that defeat, I was filled with anger and rage. I was devastated and struggled a lot.
Today was just a teaser of what we’re capable of – tomorrow will be the real test. I’m fully prepared to face GAM with all my strength and determination. I’m ready to give it my all.
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