369 says break helped him reset ahead of Worlds return against Hanwha Life

369 says break helped him reset ahead of Worlds return against Hanwha Life

Top Esports top laner Bai “ 369 ” Jia-Hao says his break from competition helped restore his mindset as he prepares to return to the Worlds stage against Hanwha Life Esports .

Speaking to Sheep Esports ahead of the Swiss stage, 369 explained that returning to a professional player’s daily routine initially required adjustment, but that he now feels comfortable with it again.

A return shaped by visa problems

369 is stepping in for Cheng “ZUIAN” Zi-Hao, who cannot attend the tournament because of visa issues. Assistant coaches BoBo and LEO are also missing the event.

He brought a plush representation of ZUIAN to the tournament, explaining that it helps make the absent top laner feel included after his efforts to reach Worlds.

A demanding first opponent

369 said he has noticed a broader selection of viable top-lane champions while watching recent competition. His first test will come against Zeus and an HLE lineup entering Worlds as the reigning MSI champion.

He described himself as excited to discover how well he can perform after his time away from the stage.

Top Esports face Hanwha Life in a best-of-one on October 24 at 01:00 GMT+7. The matchup immediately places 369 against one of the tournament’s strongest opponents as Top Esports begin their Swiss-stage campaign.