The current season, following the cancellation of the DPC, has been chaotic and hurried. Some players and teams seem to still be recovering from the previous season, yet the current one is already nearing its end. Additionally, this year's The International has four fewer participating teams. As a result, several standout players from last year won't be competing in The International 2024. Here's a look at five notable esports figures who won't be making an appearance:
1. Arteezy
Perhaps the most notable omission is Artour "Arteezy" Babaev. For the first time in nine years, Arteezy will miss the main event of the year. After the last season, Shopify Rebellion lost two veteran supports, Fly and Cr1t- (both of whom have qualified for TI13), and struggled without the DPC structure. The team did qualify for four major tournaments throughout the season but only managed to place in the top 8 at once. Consequently, Arteezy, who has nine TIs under his belt, finished his season early in June after failing in the finals of both the EWC and TI qualifiers.
Despite the questions surrounding Arteezy's current form, his presence at TI will undoubtedly be missed, even if only for his meme-worthy media persona.
2. Niu
Li "niu" Kongbo from LGD Gaming was a breakout star last season. It’s rare to see new, vibrant talents emerge from China these days. Niu joined LGD mid-season last year and quickly proved himself at the tier-1 level. He was one of the most effective off laners at the previous TI, known for his strong laning, aggressive play style, and wide hero pool, including Marci, Omniknight, and Broodmother. Niu even ranked in the top 5 for KDA among all participants at TI 2023, a significant achievement for a position three players. However, this season has been tough for him, marked by financial issues at the club, the departure of NothingToSay, and a weakened roster. With only one tier-1 tournament appearance in six months, Niu's performance has understandably declined, though he still showed glimpses of his potential.
3. Somnus
It was anticipated that the legendary Lu "Somnus丶M" Yao might not make it to TI this year. After The International 2023, the Chinese mid laner announced a break from his professional career. This move mirrored his decision from the previous year when he joined Azure Ray midway through the season, which worked out then. This time, however, Somnus returned to competition just in time for the regional qualifiers, not with an established team but with a hastily formed stack, TEAM TURTLE. Although they managed to make waves by knocking out niu’s LGD, they couldn’t overcome G2.iG. Despite the challenges, Somnus performed exceptionally well, leading the qualifiers in KDA and having his Shadow Fiend frequently banned in the first phase. But thriving in such a competitive region with a returning Chalice as the carry was too much to ask.
4. Pakazs
Christian "Pakazs" Savina has been one of South America’s brightest and most skilled players in recent years. Although his team underperformed at TI12, exiting in the first round of the playoffs, Evil Geniuses showed promise last season, even finishing in the top 4 at a major. However, the cancellation of the DPC threw South American Dota into chaos, with teams forming and disbanding in quick succession. Pakazs' new team, BOOM Esports, was caught in this turmoil. Remarkably, despite the constant roster changes, they managed a top-6 finish at PGL Wallachia Season 1. Still, they placed only third in the regional qualifiers. Pakazs displayed his versatility by playing heroes like Vengeful Spirit, Anti-Mage, and even the classic Abaddon. Yet, the more stable beastcoast, with just one roster change all season, proved stronger. While Pakazs may not be the most decorated player, his flair and skill make him a standout star, and his absence will be felt at TI.
5. Zai
Ludwig "zai" Wåhlberg will likely attend TI13, but not as a player. Instead, he will be there as the general manager of Tundra Esports. Zai announced his break from professional play almost immediately after being eliminated from last year's The International. He spent the entire current season inactive, without any sudden urges to return for the qualifiers. Last season, while sometimes criticized, Zai was a crucial "X-factor" for Team Liquid. His versatility and strategic depth made him indispensable, able to adapt to any draft and play any hero. His pairing with Boxi created one of the most formidable off lane duos. Although 33, who replaced him, is also highly skilled, watching Zai play was always a joy. His absence this year means TI will be missing one of its most beloved and adaptable players.
These players' absences highlight the unpredictable and challenging nature of professional Dota 2, where even the most talented and well-known figures can find themselves sidelined from the biggest stage.