Jeong “Impact” Eon-young has set a new milestone in the LCS, surpassing Jason “WildTurtle” Tran to become the player with the most matches played in the league’s history. As Team Liquid aims for their sixth Worlds appearance, Impact’s achievement underscores his enduring presence in the competitive League of Legends scene.
Impact’s Record-Breaking Achievement
On July 28, Impact made his 630th appearance in the LCS, breaking the previous record held by WildTurtle. This historic moment came during Liquid’s decisive 2-0 victory over Immortals.
Despite being unaware of his record-breaking feat during the match, Impact expressed his ongoing determination to return to the Worlds stage. “That’s good to hear, but my goal is not done,” he said.
A Storied Career in North America
Impact’s journey in the North American League of Legends scene began seven years ago with Team Impulse. He later played for NRG and Cloud9, where he quickly became known for his skill and consistency. His success includes:
- Multiple LCS Titles: Over his eight-year career in North America, Impact has won six LCS titles.
- Key Teams: His stints with Cloud9 and Team Liquid have been particularly noteworthy, with significant contributions to their successes.
- International Appearances: Impact has competed at the highest levels, including MSI and Worlds, showcasing his global competitiveness.
Impact’s First Stint at Liquid
Impact’s first period with Team Liquid from 2018 to 2021 was marked by remarkable achievements:
- MSI Finalist: Liquid reached the MSI finals, demonstrating their international prowess.
- Four-Split Win Streak: Impact helped Liquid secure four consecutive LCS titles.
- Consistent Performance: His stability and high-level play were crucial to Liquid’s dominance during this period.
The Road Back to Liquid
After a brief time with Evil Geniuses and FlyQuest, Impact returned to Liquid in 2023. He immediately made an impact, helping the team clinch the Spring title. Now, with their sights set on Worlds 2024, Liquid’s 5-0 record guarantees their spot in the LCS Championship playoffs.
The top three teams from these playoffs will earn their tickets to Worlds, making each match crucial.
Upcoming Challenges
Liquid’s upcoming matches against Cloud9 and NRG will be pivotal. Both teams are formidable opponents, with Cloud9 also boasting an undefeated record. These games will not only determine playoff seeding but also set the stage for their Worlds aspirations.
Key Matches to Watch
- Liquid vs. Cloud9 (August 4): A top-of-the-table clash that promises high-stakes action.
- Liquid vs. NRG (August 10): The final regular season match that could impact playoff positioning.
Final Toughts
As Liquid prepares for the playoffs and Worlds 2024, fans should keep an eye on Impact’s strategic plays and leadership within Liquid. His exceptional skill and adaptability make him a key player to watch in the upcoming matches.