The 2017 League of Legends World Championship was a tournament full of promise for North American fans. Hopes were pinned on one team in particular to finally break the region’s international curse: Team SoloMid (TSM). As the most dominant team in North American League of Legends history, TSM entered Worlds 2017 with a legacy on their shoulders and a burning desire to prove themselves on the world stage. This article revisits TSM’s journey at Worlds 2017, exploring their performance, analyzing their triumphs and tribulations, and examining the lasting impact of their run.
A Legacy of Domestic Dominance
Before delving into their Worlds 2017 performance, it’s crucial to understand the weight of expectation TSM carried. By 2017, they had secured six LCS titles, a testament to their regional dominance. Led by star mid-laner Søren “Bjergsen” Bjerg, widely regarded as one of the best players in the West, TSM consistently displayed strategic prowess and individual talent.
Their performance at the 2017 Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) further fueled fans’ hopes. Despite exiting in the group stage, TSM secured victories against formidable opponents, showcasing their international potential. This success, however, amplified the pressure to perform at Worlds, the most prestigious tournament of the year.
A Rocky Road to the World Stage
TSM’s journey at Worlds 2017 began in Group D, often dubbed the “Group of Death,” alongside South Korea’s Samsung Galaxy, China’s Royal Never Give Up, and Europe’s Misfits Gaming. Despite the challenging group, expectations remained high for TSM to advance.
Their opening match against Misfits was a tense back-and-forth affair. Despite a strong start, TSM faltered in the late game, highlighting their vulnerability to European aggression. The loss raised concerns, especially considering Misfits’ underdog status.
However, TSM bounced back with a decisive victory against Samsung Galaxy, the eventual tournament winners. This unexpected win sent shockwaves through the tournament, proving TSM could compete with the very best.
Their inconsistency resurfaced in subsequent matches, with losses against RNG and Misfits. Despite a final victory against Samsung Galaxy, TSM finished the group stage with a 3-3 record, tied with Misfits for second place.
The Tiebreaker Heartbreak
The tiebreaker match against Misfits was a nail-biting affair that exemplified the highs and lows of TSM’s Worlds 2017 journey. After a hard-fought battle, TSM ultimately fell short, ending their tournament run.
Legacy and Lessons Learned
Despite their early exit, TSM’s performance at Worlds 2017 offered valuable lessons for both the team and the North American region. It highlighted the importance of international experience, strategic adaptability, and mental fortitude on the world stage.
While TSM’s journey that year was marked by both triumph and heartbreak, their legacy at Worlds 2017 serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of competitive League of Legends and the dedication required to reach the pinnacle of the game.