Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok is not just a legend on Summoner’s Rift; he’s also breaking records in the financial world of esports. According to reports from the Korean site NAVER, Faker’s salary alone equals the entire pay of some of the top teams in the LCK, including Gen.G.
His earnings reflect both his unparalleled skill and the immense value he brings to T1, far beyond his performance in-game.
Faker’s Salary vs. Gen.G’s Entire Roster
The recent report reveals that Faker’s annual earnings are approximately 6 million USD, the same as the total salaries of all the players on Gen.G’s squad combined. This massive figure reflects how crucial Faker is to T1—not only for his four World Championships but also for the sponsorships, merchandise sales, and global fanbase he attracts.
Why T1 Invests So Heavily in Faker
Faker’s salary is not just about his in-game contributions. As arguably the greatest esports athlete ever, his presence is invaluable to T1’s brand.
Whether through sponsorships or merchandise, having Faker on the roster boosts T1’s overall value far beyond his salary. His leadership, experience, and consistent high-level play continue to make him an irreplaceable asset.
Gen.G’s Success on a Budget
Interestingly, Gen.G, one of the LCK’s most dominant teams, manages to stay competitive despite a significantly lower payroll. With their entire team’s salary amounting to 5.3 to 6 million USD, they still managed to upset other big-budget teams like Hanwha Life Esports (HLE).
Reports suggest that top players like Kim “Canyon” Geon-bu even took pay cuts to join, helping the team build a cost-effective yet formidable roster.
LCK Salary Comparison in 2024
Here’s a breakdown of some of the top LCK team salaries for 2024:
- T1: ~7.5 to 11.3 million USD
- Hanwha Life: ~7.5 million USD
- Gen.G: ~5.3 to 6 million USD
- Dplus KIA: ~4.5 million USD
- KT Rolster: ~2.3 million USD
Despite being one of the highest-paid athletes in the industry, Faker’s contributions to T1’s legacy and revenue ensure that the investment pays off in more ways than one.
Conclusion
Faker’s record-breaking salary is a testament to his status as a living legend in esports. While other teams manage success with smaller budgets, T1’s investment in Faker continues to pay dividends both on and off the Rift. As Faker continues his reign in the LCK, his influence over esports only grows.
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