In the world of sports, few questions spark debate like “Who is the Greatest of All Time (GOAT)?” Is it Messi or Ronaldo? LeBron or Jordan? Federer, Nadal, or Djokovic? In esports, however, one player has transcended the need for such debate: Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok. With his recent record-smashing fifth Worlds title, Faker’s legacy goes beyond mere “greatest”—he has cemented himself as an icon, arguably the most significant individual force in any competitive field today.

Here’s why no one else in esports even comes close.

Mastering Multiple Eras of League

For most athletes, longevity comes with sacrifices. A footballer past 30, like Messi or Ronaldo, may lose some explosiveness; Federer had to adapt his finesse to counter younger, faster rivals. And esports follows a similar consensus. The threshold typically agreed on is 28. After that, it is believed that one will start to see a steady decline in reaction time which is vital in esports. But Faker has shown a level of consistency that’s simply unheard of in esports.

The League of Legends meta, strategies, and opponents have transformed dramatically over the years. Yet Faker has dominated not one, but multiple “eras” of the game. From his debut in 2013 to his 2024 title, Faker has redefined the phrase “keeping up with the times.”

Five World Championships

Every athlete dreams of titles. Messi and Ronaldo have finally claimed international titles after years of individual achievements. LeBron and Jordan both have their championships, but even their legacies are marked by fierce debate. Faker, however, has set a standard that isn’t just high—it’s practically insurmountable. Five Worlds titles. In esports, where competitors burn bright and fast, Faker has become synonymous with winning on the biggest stage, time and time again.

These aren’t just trophies—they’re symbols of a level of dominance that feels almost mythical. Faker’s five Worlds titles set a benchmark that others may aspire to but are unlikely to touch.

Unmatched Adaptability & Evolution

Athletes often speak of adaptability as the secret to longevity. Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic became legendary by mastering different surfaces and outlasting younger challengers. But in esports, the challenge is even tougher. League of Legends is a game that evolves with every season—mechanics, champions, team compositions, and strategies shift constantly. Staying at the top in such a dynamic game is akin to Federer playing an ever-changing version of tennis.

And yet, Faker’s adaptability is unmatched. He has survived these changes and mastered them, evolving with the game itself and cementing his position as the greatest. His ability to stay at the top despite new mechanics and meta-shifts highlights a rare skillset and strategic mind in any sport.

Faker’s Secret Weapon

One reason the GOAT debate in sports endures is the mental game. Hamilton, Schumacher, and Vettel—legends of F1—are known for their mental fortitude, but few sustain it over a decade or more. Faker, on the other hand, has faced intense pressure, heartbreaking losses, and the scrutiny of millions, yet his focus remains unbroken.

Esports’ First Global Icon

In sports, the true greats are those who transcend their field. Jordan did it for basketball, Messi for football, and now, Faker has done it for esports. He is more than a champion—he’s a symbol of what esports can achieve, an inspiration to millions, and an example of how an individual can elevate an entire sport.

Faker’s influence has pushed esports further into the mainstream, inspiring a generation of players and proving that esports can stand alongside traditional sports as a domain of skill, strategy, and resilience. His status is beyond just “the best player”—he’s esports’ first true icon, defining what it means to be a legend in this rapidly growing field.

Faker’s Legacy Is Unmatched

While traditional sports still spark endless GOAT debates, esports has its answer. Faker’s legacy is a testament to skill, mental resilience, and an ability to evolve that very few athletes have ever matched. Five Worlds titles are not just numbers—they’re proof of a career that stands alone in the esports pantheon. Unlike Messi, LeBron, or Federer, there’s no rival for Faker; he stands unchallenged, an enduring symbol of excellence in esports.

For those watching the game evolve and witnessing Faker’s run, he needs only one title: the GOAT, now and forever.