The International (TI) is the pinnacle of competitive Dota 2, known not only for the intense gameplay but also for its record-breaking prize pools. Since its inception in 2011, The International has set the standard for esports tournaments, with millions of dollars at stake, turning players into millionaires overnight. Here, we explore some of the best and most significant prizes awarded at The International, showcasing the growth of Dota 2 as a premier esport.
1. The International 2011 – $1.6 Million Total Prize Pool
- Winner: Natus Vincere (Na’Vi)
- Prize for 1st Place: $1,000,000
- Significance: The first-ever International held in Cologne, Germany, set the stage for what would become the most prestigious event in esports. The million-dollar prize for Na’Vi was unheard of at the time, establishing Dota 2 as a major player in the competitive gaming scene.
2. The International 2013 – $2.87 Million Total Prize Pool
- Winner: Alliance
- Prize for 1st Place: $1,437,190
- Significance: This TI saw the rise of crowdfunding through the Compendium, which allowed the community to contribute to the prize pool. Alliance’s victory and the dramatic grand final against Na’Vi are still regarded as one of the best in TI history.
3. The International 2014 – $10.93 Million Total Prize Pool
- Winner: Newbee
- Prize for 1st Place: $5,025,029
- Significance: TI4 marked the first time the prize pool exceeded $10 million, a milestone that underscored the growing influence and popularity of Dota 2. Newbee’s win solidified China’s dominance in the Dota 2 scene.
4. The International 2018 – $25.53 Million Total Prize Pool
- Winner: OG
- Prize for 1st Place: $11,234,158
- Significance: OG’s victory in TI8 is one of the most remarkable stories in esports. Coming in as underdogs, they defied all odds to win the biggest prize in Dota 2 history at that time, cementing their legacy in the game.
5. The International 2019 – $34.33 Million Total Prize Pool
- Winner: OG
- Prize for 1st Place: $15,620,181
- Significance: Not only did TI9 break the previous year’s record for the largest prize pool in esports history, but it also saw OG becoming the first team to win back-to-back Internationals. Their unprecedented run earned them over $15 million, the largest single-event prize in esports history.
6. The International 2021 – $40.02 Million Total Prize Pool
- Winner: Team Spirit
- Prize for 1st Place: $18,208,300
- Significance: TI10 set a new record for the largest prize pool in esports history, surpassing $40 million. Team Spirit’s incredible journey from the qualifiers to champions earned them the largest single prize ever awarded in esports, making this one of the most memorable TIs to date.
Conclusion
The International has continually raised the bar for prize pools in esports, with each year breaking new records and setting higher standards. The massive prizes not only reflect the popularity and competitive nature of Dota 2 but also the passion of its community, which drives these pools to astronomical figures. As the scene continues to evolve, the prizes at The International will likely continue to grow, making it the most sought-after title in esports.