Deft: I will make 2024 a year where I can achieve a perfect 100 score for myself
The Korean media outlet Sportsseoul released an interview with KT's bottom lane player, Deft, discussing his outlook for the upcoming season and his motivation to continue his professional career.
"I will make 2024 a year where I can achieve a perfect 100 score for myself."
Deft expressed, "I wasn't very satisfied with this year's performance, so I lacked confidence in continuing my career. During the transfer period, before choosing a team, I wanted to confirm how much passion and drive I still had within me, so I dedicated myself to playing solo queue. Just like before, I still immensely enjoy playing and only think about how I can perform better, so I've made the decision to try again."
He was the protagonist who dominated the World Championship in 2022 (at that time with DRX) and sparked the 'Heavy Hearts' trend. Despite transferring to DK this year and stepping onto the World Championship stage, he couldn't make it to the quarterfinals, leaving regrets. Due to a sense of responsibility for insufficient strength, he pondered retirement.
Deft said, "Self-satisfaction is crucial, and if this year were to be rated, I'd give myself a 60. I'm disappointed in myself and lack confidence. After being eliminated from the World Championship, I felt mentally exhausted. But when I watched the finals, the desire to stand on that stage again ignited within me. That gave me a lot of motivation, which is why I decided to play another year."
After a five-year hiatus, he returned to KT. Reuniting with Pyosik Hong Chang-hyeon and BeryL Jo Gwang-hyeon, his teammates from the 2022 season when they raised the World Championship trophy, signifies that 'Again 2022' is worth attempting.
Deft explained his reasons for choosing KT: "The most important goal for me in 2024 is the sense of achievement in working harder within the given time. The team that suits me best in this aspect is KT. I spent 2019 with Coach Hirai, and back then, he had a lot of faith in me, creating an environment where players could seriously compete. I've worked with Gwang-hyeon and Chang-hyeon before. Although I haven't been on the same team as Gwang-hyeon, I've heard a lot of good things about him, along with newcomer PerfecT. With these members and our coach, I feel I can compete earnestly."
He also said, "In fact, when I received KT's proposal, I made the decision without hesitation. Although the team's performance in 2019 with Coach Hirai (then in KZ) wasn't excellent, it was my most satisfying year personally. I was content with my training volume at that time and with my teammates' efforts. It was the best result within our capabilities, and I remember confidently saying this to the fans. Even though we didn't win the championship, I vividly remember that we gave it our all."
Speaking about PerfecT, the rookie he will be working with in the upcoming season, he smiled brightly, saying, "He's the type I like. Apart from his gameplay, his attitude towards matches is excellent. Regardless of wins or losses, I see his eagerness to improve every day, and I really like that. That's the type I admire."
The key for KT in the upcoming season will be the 'new-old combination' centered around Deft, the World Championship-winning members reuniting, and adding a top-tier mid laner. This could potentially rewrite the storyline shown in this season.
Deft stated, "Of course, the ultimate goal is the World Championship, no way around it! (laughs) I believe if our players clash and argue frequently during the spring and summer seasons, it signifies the potential to achieve our goals. Personally, I still want to challenge for the LCK championship."
The primary goal is to win the internal battle. Deft is determined not to let his skills decline and intends to maximize the ADC role. He expressed his determination, saying, "I hope next year is a year where I feel personally qualified. If it meets the standards I've set and if I give my best, it should be a 100. This year was a 60, and next year, I'll add another 40, creating a year that's worth a 100."
Finally, he addressed his fans, saying, "Personally, this year in my career, I feel I couldn't repay the support from my fans the most. Maybe it's because of the memories of winning in 2022; it always felt so exhilarating. I apologize to the fans. Next year, I want to become a player who matches the support from the fans, one who will surely repay everyone's support."
