Top Esports (TES) have returned to the pinnacle of the LPL, securing their first league title in nearly five years after a dominant Grand Finals victory over Anyone’s Legend.
This long-awaited triumph not only cements TES as one of the strongest teams in China but also guarantees their spot at First Stand, the first international tournament of the 2025 season.
A Relentless Lower Bracket Run to the Title
Top Esports’ journey through LPL Split 1 2025 was nothing short of a gauntlet. The team played a staggering eight best-of-five series throughout the split, losing only once: a 1-3 defeat to Anyone’s Legend in the Group Stage. This loss placed them in second position, forcing them to embark on a grueling Lower Bracket Playoff run.
From there, TES showcased their resilience and championship-caliber play. They eliminated Invictus Gaming, Ninjas in Pyjamas, Bilibili Gaming, and JD Gaming, all with commanding 3-1 victories, before earning a rematch against Anyone’s Legend in the Grand Finals.
Despite facing some of the toughest teams in the region, TES never wavered, executing their aggressive playstyle with precision and confidence.
Grand Finals: Top Esports Overwhelms Anyone’s Legend
With momentum on their side, TES entered the Grand Finals against Anyone’s Legend and delivered a statement performance. Anyone’s Legend, appearing in their first-ever LPL Finals, struggled to match the experience and composure of TES. The series culminated in a 3-1 victory for Top Esports, marking the end of their five-year championship drought.
JackeyLove: The Timeless MVP
A key component of TES’ success was Yu “JackeyLove” Wen-Bo, the team’s legendary ADC. Nearly seven years after winning the 2018 World Championship with Invictus Gaming, JackeyLove proved once again why he remains one of the best bot laners in the LPL.
His performance in the Finals was nothing short of spectacular, especially in Game 4, where he picked Draven and dismantled Anyone’s Legend’s composition. Across the three games that TES won, JackeyLove posted an impressive 18/5/36 KDA, showcasing his ability to outmaneuver opponents in high-pressure teamfights.
His efforts earned him the LPL Finals MVP award, further solidifying his status as a cornerstone of TES’ success.
What’s Next for Top Esports?
With the LPL trophy finally in their hands, TES now turn their focus to First Stand, the inaugural international tournament of the year. This will be their opportunity to test their mettle against the best teams from other regions and potentially establish themselves as a favorite for Worlds 2025.
After conquering the LPL in such dominant fashion, all eyes will be on Top Esports to see if they can carry this momentum forward and make an impact on the global stage. The question remains: will TES continue their reign, or will international competition present new challenges?