The 2025 Honor of Kings KPL Grand Final made history earlier this month as 62,196 fans packed Beijing's National Stadium, setting a new global attendance record for a single esports event. Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, joined industry leaders at the 'Bird's Nest' venue, praising China's accelerated development in competitive gaming during an exclusive interview with CGTN Sports Scene.
"What China has achieved in esports infrastructure and community engagement this year sets a benchmark for the industry," stated Prince Faisal, highlighting Beijing's state-of-the-art gaming facilities. The Saudi royal noted how Chinese-developed titles like Honor of Kings have become cultural bridges, with the November tournament attracting participants from 18 countries and regions across Asia.
The record-breaking event coincides with growing collaboration between Chinese and Saudi gaming initiatives, following the 2024 memorandum of understanding between their esports federations. Analysts suggest such partnerships could reshape the $320 billion global esports market, with Asia currently accounting for 58% of worldwide revenue.
