Zai joins Tundra Esports as Team Manager

Dota 2

24 Feb

Harrison Htet

Ludwig “Zai” Wahlberg revealed an interesting career change. The player has achieved many victories in several tournaments but couldn’t immortalise his on the prestigious Aegis of Champions.

Despite the player’s best efforts throughout the years, it was simply out of reach for him. However, after a disappointing 5th-6th place finish at The International 2023 with Team Liquid, he bid farewell to the professional Dota 2 scene.

Zai after getting eliminated from The International 2023 by Gaimin Gladiators.
Credits: Valve

Although the player said his goodbyes to the Dota 2 professional scene, no one ever really retires from Dota 2. Zai will be making his return to the scene as the general manager of Tundra Esports.

Why Zai Took A Time-off

In a recent interview, Team Liquid’s former offlaner revealed that he has lost motivation to commit to the grind of Dota 2. The Dota 2 professional scene is extremely stressful, and demanding on the players.

A close-up shot of Zai during one of his matches at The International 2022. Credits: Valve

Additionally, Zai stated that he prioritizes his health and relationships during his break. The ex-offlaner of Team Liquid disclosed that he played only five or six games since TI during his break and was glad he took the time off.

Never Not Watching

One of the most attractive Dota 2 players, Zai.
Credits: Twitter.@TeamLiquid

Despite being away from the professional scene, the player admits he has kept a close eye on it and even admitted to missing being involved in it. However, he said he didn’t miss playing Dota 2. Zai continued to say he watched the entire ESL One Kuala Lumpur 2023 and the most recent Dota 2 tournament, BetBoom Dacha Dubai 2024.

Upon reviewing his statements, it is evident that Zai is well-informed on the current state of the professional Dota 2 scene.

The New Role

Zai at The International 2022, before going up against his former team, Team Secret.
Credits: Valve

As Ludwig is up-to-date with current Dota 2 news, the player decided to step back into the ring once again. However, he is not returning as a player. He is returning as General Manager for Tundra Esports.

The latest General Manager of Tundra has stated that he isn’t very interested in returning as a player or coach. However, he is open to returning under a different job description with new responsibilities.

The New Responsibilities

Zai at The International 2022.
Credits: Valve

The former offlaner of Team Liquid's newest job has many differences compared to his previous one. As the manager of the Tundra Esports Dota 2 division, his job is to take care of the entire Tundra Dota 2 roster.

The former player explained he would be in charge of their daily tasks and tasks related to the team’s Dota 2 department.

Why General Managing

Zai with Team Liquid's Coach, Blitz before a match The International 2022.
Credits: Valve

The former offlaner explained why he took this role. After taking his break,Zai was trying to find something to pursue in life, and nothing piqued his interest.

He is keen to use his experience and the connections he made as a player in this new role. Additionally, Zai is looking forward to picking up new things at Tundra Esports. Moreover, he thinks the stuff he learns from his time as a GM will be helpful for him in his later stages of life.

Tundra Esports has to rebuild its roster 2024, and they have many talented players.
Credits: Twitter. @TundraEsports

The current iteration of Tundra Esports consists of several talented players. As a general manager of Tundra Esports, Zai is committed to finding the best opportunities for his new team.

Tundra Esports will be participating in the upcoming DreamLeague Season 22, which will be Ludwig’s first time as general manager.

Featured Image Source: Valve