The International 2024 Records and Anti-Records

The International 2024 (TI13), the thirteenth tournament in the Dota 2 series organized by Valve and PGL, took place from September 4 to 15, 2024. Despite the usual excitement and atmosphere, this tournament became notable for a series of records and surprises. One of the main topics was the fact that the prize pool for TI13 was the lowest since 2013, totaling only $2,572,906. Let’s take a closer look at the key highlights, interesting facts, records, and anti-records of this tournament.

Hero Health Evolution

Well-known Dota 2 analyst Noxville shared intriguing statistics regarding the average health of heroes at the end of games across various The International tournaments. His data reveals a significant increase in hero survivability over the years.

Increase in average hero health: Over 12 years, the average health of heroes at the end of games nearly doubled, from 1,483 to 2,704 by TI13. This reflects changes in the meta, with more emphasis on prolonged battles and the selection of more durable heroes.

Unpicked Heroes: A New Anti-Record

One of the significant occurrences at TI13 was the number of heroes that were neither picked nor banned. A total of 21 heroes remained untouched in the drafts throughout the tournament, setting a new anti-record for the past 11 years. The last time more heroes were left out was in 2012, when 24 heroes went unpicked.

Here is the list of heroes that were neither picked nor banned at TI13:

• Arc Warden
• Dawnbraker
• Bloodseeker
• Bounty Hunter
• Lifestealer
• Juggernaut
• Outworld Devourer
• Necrophos
• Techies
• Phantom Lancer
• Shadow Shaman
• Legion Commander
• Lich
• Venomancer
• Ogre Magi
• Silencer
• Tidehunter
• Vengeful Spirit
• Pudge
• Witch Doctor
• Warlock

This anti-record highlights how certain heroes fall out of the meta due to strategy shifts, balance updates, and the preferences of top teams.

Historic Performance by Team Liquid

TI13 marked a triumph for Team Liquid, who set several records and achieved remarkable feats:

• Flawless playoffs: Team Liquid became the first team in The International’s history to not lose a single map during the playoff stage, showcasing incredible skill and teamwork.
• Neta "33" Shapira’s double victory: Neta "33" Shapira became the first player to win The International twice, playing for different teams, highlighting his versatility and talent.
• Longest career for a trio of players: Michael "miCKKe" Vu, Samuel "Boxi" Svahn, and Aydin "iNSaNiA" Sarkohi won their first TI after years of playing together, proving the importance of cohesion and perseverance.
• Oldest champion: At 30 years old, iNSaNiA became the oldest player to win The International, underscoring the significance of experience and determination in esports.
• First organization with two TI victories with different rosters: Team Liquid also became the first organization to win two The International tournaments with entirely different rosters.

Gaimin Gladiators' Struggles

On the other hand, Gaimin Gladiators faced some tough challenges at TI13, particularly in the grand final:

• Grand final defeat: Although Gaimin Gladiators reached yet another grand final, they were defeated by Team Liquid, marking their first loss after seven successful tournament finals.
• Two consecutive 0-3 losses: Gaimin Gladiators became the first team in TI history to lose two consecutive grand finals with a 0-3 scoreline. This unfortunate record reflects the immense pressure and competition at the top level.
  

Decline of Chinese Teams

For the first time in The International’s history, no Chinese team made it into the top 4. Previously, Chinese teams were considered among the strongest, often leading the pack. This result signals significant shifts in the esports landscape and the possible decline of Chinese dominance in the region.

The Era of Nisha Continues

Michał "Nisha" Jankowski, one of the world’s top Dota 2 players, continued his incredible streak of high placements at The International. Over the past five years, he consistently secured top spots:

Nisha's TI results (over the past 5 years):

• 1st place (2024)
• 2nd place (2023)
• 3rd place (2022)
• 3rd place (2021)
• 4th place (2020)
• 5-6th place (2019)

His consistency and ability to remain at the top of his game in a changing meta make Nisha one of the most remarkable figures in Dota 2 history.

Decline in Tournament Interest

Despite Team Liquid’s impressive achievements, the final of The International 2024 attracted a comparatively small audience. Only 1.4 million people watched the final, the lowest number in the last five years. This decline in interest may be attributed to the reduced prize pool and the absence of strong Chinese teams in the top ranks. Such a drop in viewership raises questions about the future of The International and the necessary measures to retain a global audience.

Conclusion

The International 2024 is unlikely to be remembered as one of the top TIs. Many viewers even labeled it the worst, alongside the dull TI of 2014. However, this tournament will be significant as a turning point, serving as a catalyst for 90% of teams to undergo roster reshuffles. Insider reports of these changes are pouring in from all sources.