The International 2024 Finals Weekend has officially started as Gabe “Gaben” Newell has made his appearance at TI13 as part of the Opening Ceremony. In a video message debuting on Sep. 13, Gaben welcomed Dota 2 back to Europe, “Where it all began.”
Newell, who is president of the Valve corporation, makers of Dota 2, is known for his affinity towards Dota 2. Each International, Gaben either appears in person, or films a message to officially open TI, and this even is no different.
Gaben’s message to fans was the climax of a circus-themed spectacle to open The International live event. Accompanied by epic orchestral music, the eight remaining teams in TI13 took to the stage to be introduced.
Image Credit: Esports.net – Michael Hassall
Fans, many of whom had been waiting patiently to enter the arena since 7:00am local time, cheered as the teams entered the arena for the first time. While all teams received some support, there were some clear favorites, with Team Liquid, Gaimin Gladiators, and Falcons receiving the lion’s share of support.
But all paled in comparison to the cheers for Gaben at TI13, whose message hyped up fans to a fever pitch. Referencing the fact that Dota 2’s first International had taken place in Europe, at GamesCom, Cologne, in 2011, Newell reference the fact this was the first time TI had returned properly to Europe since then (TI10 in Romania was played without a live audience).
Image Credit: Esports.net – Michael Hassall
Newell closed his speech with his traditional line – “Welcome to the International,” officially opening the event.
The International 2024 Main Event will run from Sep. 13 until Sep. 15, with the champions taking home the majority of a (at the time of writing) $2.5 million USD prize pool.
