While the rest of the team rushed to the stage, Patiphan "Patiphan" Chaiwong had to wipe his tears several times and sit down again. His team Los Angeles Gladiators beat Dallas Fuel 4-0 in the final of the June tournament of the Overwatch League.
"It means everything to me, I have no words," Patiphan said, still fighting back tears minutes later. "Everything is so overwhelming." Already in 2018, the then 15-year-old thrilled the fans. However, as a minor, he could not compete in the league, and as a result, he switched to other games. This season he returned and took the title of champion right in the first tournament.
From booing to standing ovations
Although the home fans had booed LA minutes earlier, the arena applauded when Patiphan put the trophy in the air. Since the beginning of the Covid pandemic, it was the first time that Western teams played in front of an audience. Overwatch CEO Sean Miller thanked the fans present at the presentation of the trophy: "It was an incredible audience.»
In the Eastern region, Seoul Dynasty won the first title in its history. After a defeat in the first game of the playoffs, they fought their way to the finals in the losing round. They defeated Philadelphia Fusion 4-0.
After a break, the Overwatch League will continue on June 16. In the opening match of the qualification for the next tournament, London Spitfire plays against Florida Mayhem.