VALORANT Champions 2025 kicks off tomorrow in Paris, that includes the 16 finest VCT groups from throughout the globe and a $2.25m (~£1.66m) prize pool.
For GIANTX rookie Karel ‘Flickless’ Maeckelbergh, Champions will likely be his first-ever worldwide VCT match. The flex/initiator participant superior to the tier-one EMEA circuit lower than 5 months in the past, however has already showcased spectacular mechanics and psychological fortitude.
“It feels insane to be right here,” stated the rising star in a latest press convention.
Flickless started his VALORANT esports journey in 2021 as a part of NOX Esports. He and fellow rookie Eduard-George ‘ara’ Hanceriuc joined GIANTX from UCAM Esports Membership in April after the companion staff had suffered disappointing outcomes at Kickoff and Stage 1.
When requested about what recommendation he would give to different tier-two gamers seeking to make the soar to the VCT circuit, Flickless stated: “I might advocate to only hold grinding. Grind with a staff, take heed to your teammates and simply attempt to develop, simply attempt to turn into higher day-after-day.”
Regardless of their lack of expertise in franchising, Flickless and ara performed elementary roles in GIANTX’s stunning Stage 2 run. Solely Staff Liquid might halt the organisation’s momentum with a 3-0 Grand Last victory over EMEA’s new darkish horse.
Excessive Stakes and Early Hurdles
GIANTX gears up for its first VALORANT Champions attendance since 2023 — when it was nonetheless often known as ‘Giants’ — nonetheless, the staff has already encountered its first problem. On account of sickness, duelist prodigy ara needed to sit out throughout observe till his restoration was confirmed after right now’s press convention.
“We’re a bit unfortunate with the issues which are occurring proper now with ara. However we have been nicely ready earlier than we got here right here, and we’ll simply attempt to do our greatest right here,” shared Flickless
“For now, we’re simply specializing in particular person form. We performed like 4 scrims with our Assistant Coach as a duelist. It went fairly good with him, so we are going to see the way it goes.”
Though many rookies may really feel pressured within the face of their worldwide debut, particularly when further problems are at play, Flickless seems unbothered by these elements.
“We simply must hold enjoying like we have been in Stage 2. There’s no strain on us,” emphasised the rookie. “I don’t suppose loads of groups anticipate a lot from us. That’s one of the simplest ways to play: with no strain.”
In his first match in opposition to Americas’ third seed Sentinel tomorrow, Flickless may have the chance to show himself in opposition to a few of the largest names in VALORANT esports.
