EDG and their Star Player Won their First Major Tournament

Valorant has experienced rapid growth globally, and China is no exception. At the heart of this rise is Edward Gaming (EDG) and their star player, ZmjjKK, whose spectacular plays have captivated audiences worldwide. In 2024, ZmjjKK cemented his legacy by leading EDG to their first-ever major Valorant international win at Valorant Champions in Seoul, South Korea.

This historic victory was more than just a triumph for EDG; it was a breakthrough for China's Valorant scene on the world stage. With ZmjjKK's incredible talent and their team's dedication, EDG's story is one of perseverance, dominance, and hard-earned success.

The Path to Valorant Champions 2024

Edward Gaming's rise to the top of the Valorant scene wasn't overnight. In previous international tournaments, they often came close but always fell just short of the big win. ZmjjKK was instrumental in their journey, constantly refining his skills and strategies. His flashy plays, often involving the Operator, became iconic, earning him fans from across the world. But ZmjjKK and EDG had something more than just style – they had the hunger to win.

At the 2024 Valorant Champions, EDG's hunger was evident from the start. They entered the tournament as dark horses, but their confidence was unshaken. ZmjjKK's leadership and consistent performances had the team running like a well-oiled machine. Each game was a step toward proving they were not just contenders, but the best in the world. Their grand final match against Team Heretics would be a defining moment for both ZmjjKK and EDG, solidifying their status as global champions.

Game 1: A Rough Start for EDG

The first map of the grand finals was a difficult one for EDG. Team Heretics, with their strong mid-round reads and crisp executions, took control early on. Despite EDG's initial 2-0 lead, Heretics quickly adjusted, winning nine consecutive rounds and ultimately closing the map with a 13-6 scoreline. EDG struggled to find openings, as Heretics countered their signature explosive executes.

One standout player from Heretics was Benjy “benjyfishy” Fish, who consistently denied EDG's pushes on Cypher. His ability to track lurkers and provide crucial information proved invaluable to Heretics. His performance earned him the MVP of the map with a 17/14/5 KDA and 270 ACS, setting the tone for what looked like a tough series for EDG.

Game 2: ZmjjKK Strikes Back

After their defeat in the first game, EDG came into the second map determined to prove themselves. ZmjjKK led the charge on Sunset, and EDG's aggression was relentless. The Chinese squad started with a commanding 9-0 lead, leaving Heretics scrambling for answers. By halftime, EDG was up 11-1, and though Heretics tried to claw back after the break, it was too little too late.

EDG took the second map 13-4, tying the series 1-1. ZmjjKK was a force to be reckoned with, securing seven first kills and finishing with a 22/9/7 KDA and 378 ACS. His confidence and sharp aim were on full display, showing the world why he was considered one of the best players in the tournament. This game also demonstrated EDG's ability to recover quickly from setbacks, a trait that would serve them well throughout the series.

Game 3: A Tug of War on Lotus

The third map, Lotus, was a closely contested affair, with both teams trading rounds and keeping the score tight. It was a back-and-forth battle that saw multiple thrifty rounds and crucial hero plays from both sides. By halftime, the score was tied 6-6, and neither team could claim a clear advantage.

However, EDG began to pull ahead in the second half. They secured key rounds toward the end, stringing together four consecutive wins to close out the map 13-9. ZmjjKK once again played a pivotal role, delivering clutch plays when EDG needed them most. The win on Lotus gave EDG a 2-1 lead in the series, bringing them within one map of the championship.

Game 4: Heretics Fight Back on Bind

Just when it seemed like EDG was poised to close out the series, Team Heretics bounced back on Bind. The map was fiercely competitive, with both teams contesting every round. At halftime, the score was tied 6-6, and it was anyone's game. Heretics' duelist, Dominykas “MiniBoo” Lukasevicius, stepped up in the second half, picking up critical kills and carrying his team to a 12-8 lead.

Despite a late-game surge from EDG, Heretics managed to hold on to their advantage. In the final round, they denied EDG a defuse attempt with a perfectly timed Brimstone molly, sealing the map 13-11. MiniBoo finished with an impressive 23/16/3 KDA, helping Heretics tie the series 2-2 and force a decisive fifth game.

Game 5: ZmjjKK Seals the Championship

With everything on the line, EDG came into the fifth and final map with determination. The team took control early, building a commanding 8-4 lead by halftime. ZmjjKK was once again at the center of the action, out-aiming his opponents and leading his team to an 11-4 lead after the break. Heretics mounted a brief comeback, winning five straight rounds to close the gap to 11-9, but EDG was not to be denied.

In the final moments of the map, ZmjjKK delivered a heroic play that broke Heretics' momentum, allowing EDG to close out the game 13-9 and win their first-ever Valorant Champions title. ZmjjKK's performance in the grand finals was nothing short of legendary. He broke the total kill record for a five-game series, finishing with 111 kills. For his efforts, he rightfully got awarded the MVP of Valorant Champions 2024.

A New Era for Chinese Valorant

Edward Gaming's victory at Valorant Champions 2024 is a monumental achievement not only for the team but also for the entire Chinese esports community. It marks the first time a Chinese team has won an international LAN event in Valorant, putting China firmly on the map as a competitive region. ZmjjKK's rise from promising talent to world champion has inspired a new generation of Chinese players, and the team's success has sparked renewed interest in Valorant across the region.

EDG's triumph also demonstrates that regions outside of North America and Europe can compete at the highest level in Valorant. Like KRÜ Esports from Latin America and Zeta Division from Japan, EDG's journey is a story of determination, hard work, and the passion to succeed on the global stage. Their victory is a testament to the growing strength of Chinese Valorant and the potential for even greater success in the future.

Conclusion

ZmjjKK and Edward Gaming's win at Valorant Champions 2024 is a defining moment in Valorant history. It represents not just the rise of a star player and his team but also the growing prominence of China in the global esports scene. With ZmjjKK's incredible skills and EDG's relentless drive, they've earned their place as the best Valorant team in the world. As Valorant continues to grow, EDG's story will inspire countless players and fans across the globe, proving that with talent and dedication, any region can rise to the top.

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