Cover-Credits:
Topias Miikka "Topson'' Taavitsainen, two-time The International (TI) champion and one of the biggest names in esports, says the upcoming TI10 might be his last. Topson, in a conversation with Ilta-Sanomat, mentioned that he is not sure of this decision, but is looking forward to spending time with family after TI. The OG midlaner explained that he could use the break to consider whether he wants to continue playing or not.
OG is yet to qualify for TI10. Topson and his teammates will be competing for the lone TI10 slot during the EU qualifier, which starts on 7th July, 2021.
Topson discusses possible future plans
Topson is among the very few players who have won every TI in which they have participated. As a member of OG, he participated at TI8 and TI9 and won both of them. At the moment, it is undetermined if Topson will at least play in his third consecutive TI, TI10, but as he has stated, it may be his last time.
It is a bit of a feeling that this may become my last TI, although I can not say anything for sure. Anyway, after the tournament, I will take a long break and focus on my family. At the same time, you can think about whether you will continue as a player or do something else.Topson
When asked about the future, Topson is still unsure about what he will do after retiring from playing. He is considering streamer and analyst positions as he wishes to stay involved in Dota 2 even after retiring.
I will probably try streaming again and I've been thinking about being involved in Dota tournaments as an analyst or something similar even after quitting. I will probably stay with Dota even if I don't play anymore.Topson
In terms of his personal life, Topson, who is currently residing in Finland, plans to move to Malaysia, the hometown of his wife Mawar Remy Taavitsainen.
The intention would be to live in Malaysia for a few years in the future and then think things through. So far, I have not settled down permanently anywhere.Topson
In Finland, where the Dota 2 scene is relatively smaller and people do not recognize you as often as in other countries, Topson feels lucky to be able to live a quiet, peaceful life.
Translations Via Google Translate
If Topson truly decides that this is his last TI, this would also mean that Topson would retire shortly after the tournament. If this will be the case, we shall see three of the legends from the OG roster who triumphed at TI8 and TI9 departing the competitive scene. Anathan "ana" Pham retired a month ago, while Jesse "JerAx" Vainikka retired early last year.
However, Topson and OG will be focusing on winning the TI10 EU Qualifier right now. They are going to face some tough competition from teams like Team Nigma, Team Liquid, Tundra Esports, Vikin.gg, and Brame. On 7th July, OG will play its first series against Vikin.gg in the upper bracket.
