Team Liquid eyes EWC glory amid tournament controversy

The second Esports World Cup (EWC) has started in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It features a record-breaking $70 million prize pool across 25 titles. Although players donโt play for their countries, global teams like Team Liquid are getting a lot of attention.
Team Liquid is based in the Netherlands and trains full-time players. They work with game, fitness, and mindset coaches. Their team base has streaming rooms, practice areas, and even a chef on site to help players stay sharp and focused.
EA FC player Levi de Weerd says the teamโs strong support helps build teamwork and leads to good results. Apex Legends player YanYa also says the EWC is the best time heโs had in esports. Team Liquid is going for first place after finishing second last year. Thereโs $7 million waiting for the top team.
However, the eventโs Saudi support has caused some backlash because of the countryโs record on human rights. Co-CEO Victor Goossens said itโs a hard situation. Still, he believes playing in the EWC is important for the teamโs future. He said they need to stay active now if they want to still be around in five or ten years.