China's legendary gamer Zeng Zhuojun, popularly known as \"Xiao Hai\", clinched the Street Fighter 6 title at the inaugural Esports World Cup (EWC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Monday, defeating Japan's Masaki Kawano with a score of 5-2.
At 35 years old, an age often considered over the hill in the esports arena, Xiao Hai proved that age is just a number! 🎮✨
Having started his gaming journey at the tender age of six, Xiao Hai has been a force to be reckoned with in the fighting game community, boasting numerous championships in both Street Fighter and King of Fighters since 2007.
In a tournament dominated by six Japanese competitors in the quarterfinals, Xiao Hai stood as the sole Chinese contender. He powered through matches against Hikaru Nakatani of EVA:e, Tsunehiro Kanamori (aka \"Gachikun\") of Red Bull eSports, and ultimately Kawano, showcasing his unparalleled skill.
\"I started to play video games when I was six,\" Xiao Hai shared after his victory. \"My game ID 'Xiao Hai' means 'little kid' in Chinese. I'm 35 now. Many said I'm too old to win, but today, I proved I can still do it.\"
His triumph earned him a hefty $300,000 prize! 💰 While this isn't as high as the $1 million at Capcom Cup X earlier this year, the EWC's open qualification made it a fiercer battleground, allowing only the best-performing players to compete.
Xiao Hai's victory is a testament to passion and perseverance, reminding us all that dreams have no expiration date! 🌟
Reference(s):
China's Zeng Zhuojun ('Xiao Hai') wins Street Fighter 6 title at EWC
cgtn.com
