The professional area of League of Legends has produced many well-known players, but no one is as famous as Faker. This is also known by the esports boss of Riot, who emphasized in an interview how important he really is.
If there is a LoL player who is also known by people who have nothing to do with the game, then it is probably Faker. Lee Sang-hyeok has been active in esports since 2013 and has now become a celebrity even outside the game. In 2026, he was even honored by the South Korean president for his achievements.
Chris Greeley, the Global Head of League of Legends Esports
, emphasized in a recent interview how important he is for the game’s esports. He is already fearing the retirement of Faker.
He is the Michael Jordan of esports
What does Chris Greeley say about Faker? In an interview with rft.gg, Greeley is asked if he fears the day Faker retires. He answers directly: Of course, who wouldn’t?
Faker is important beyond esports. Greeley also mentions that at the last Asian Games (a sports competition that includes esports), there was a line of traditional athletes wanting photos with Faker.
According to him, Riot probably will never be ready for Faker’s retirement. He hopes that Faker will still remain in esports, even if he should stop playing: He is currently the Michael Jordan of esports. At some point – Faker, if you are listening – I hope he decides to stay connected to the ecosystem: owning a team, being a manager, coach, or speaker.
No one can compare to Faker, and it seems it will take a while until that happens.
Will Faker retire soon? Although Faker, at 30 years old, is among the oldest players in the esports of LoL, fans probably need not say goodbye to their favorite midlaner. In 2025, his contract with T1 was extended for 4 years, until November 2029 (Korea JoongAng Daily).
Additionally, he has been a co-owner of T1 Entertainment & Sports since 2020 (ESPN). So it can be assumed that Faker will continue to be involved in esports even after a possible end as a player.
What is your opinion on Faker? Can you imagine LoL without him? Feel free to write your opinion in the comments. Riot regularly brings new modes for casual players as well. One of the biggest news recently was LoL Classic: LoL Classic is a really good idea, but not because it will be fun for the players
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