In a stunning display of skill and determination, China’s KuaiShow Gaming star Zeng Zhuojun, popularly known as “Xiao Hai,” clinched the championship title in the Street Fighter 6 final at the first Esports World Cup (EWC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday.
Zeng secured a decisive 5-2 victory over Japan’s Masaki Kawano of Good 8 Squad, overcoming a series of challenging opponents throughout the tournament. In an exclusive interview with CGTN Sports Scene’s Zhu Mandan, Zeng reflected on his arduous path to victory.
“The entire competition was touch and go,” Zeng revealed. “Besides the final, each of the last-eight and last-four match-ups were really tough for me. In the last eight, I fell behind 4-2, but I knew I could not give up, even in the closing minutes, as this competition is too important to me.”
Despite trailing in the finals, Zeng’s unwavering resolve propelled him forward. “When I fell behind again, and there was little chance to win, I was still hanging on for a last opportunity and finally found my way to victory,” he said.
Remarkably, Zeng transitioned his main focus to Street Fighter less than a year ago, following a long-standing dominance in King of Fighters. His triumph at the EWC signifies a monumental achievement in his career.
“I wanted this victory for a long time, and when I was young, I thought winning was quite easy,” Zeng reflected. “I could always get a few titles on the international stage every year in Street Fighter or King of Fighters. But now, more and more players are getting really good, and everybody thought I was old. I should not stand a chance against the newcomers, but I wanted to prove to everybody that I am not that old, and I can still compete. I’m not that different from those guys, and I can still win, so this title means a lot to me.”
With Saudi Arabia set to host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2025, Zeng expressed his aspirations to represent China on this prestigious stage. “I’m really happy that esports can have its own Olympics, and Street Fighter can be listed as one of the events,” he said. “This is a good time for esports, so I hope I can seize the chance while I still have the ability to do it.”
“I really want to participate in the first esports Olympics. I have been playing this game since I was a little kid, so I think it would be the biggest success in my life if I can take part in the esports Olympics. I will give my all to prove that I can do it.”
Reference(s):
SF6 champion 'Xiao Hai' to CGTN Sports Scene: Road to victory at EWC
cgtn.com
