“I decided to do this a long time ago – even before TI”: 33 – on leaving Team Liquid for Dota
The Israeli player, Neta “33” Shapira, shared his insights regarding his decision to leave Team Liquid prior to the year’s most significant Dota tournament, The International:I made this choice a long time ago, even before TI. I spent several weeks contemplating my options and what the future might hold. It was during the time between our tournament in Peru and TI that I began to seriously reflect on my next steps, especially since the reshuffle period was notably brief this year.The core of my reasoning was to reach a decision before TI so I could avoid any emotional fallout. The International has always been the pinnacle event in the Dota 2 calendar, though I feel it has changed over the years. The prize pool is now much smaller than it used to be, which alters the stakes. Yet, the significance of TI remains; performing well here can bring immense joy and validation, while a poor showing can lead to a sense of despair.By deciding early, I aimed to sidestep the emotional rollercoaster that often accompanies the tournament. I wanted to be clear-headed and focused, allowing me to make a rational choice rather than one clouded by the intensity of the event. The pressure of TI can be overwhelming, and I wanted to ensure that my decision was based on my aspirations and not just the outcome of one tournament.
Neta “33” Shapira: Building a New Legacy with Tundra Esports
Neta “33” Shapira opened up about the reasons behind his decision to form a new team, emphasizing his desire to make a fresh start in his Dota 2 career.”I think the primary reason was my longing to play with Saksa again. Our synergy was undeniable, and I believe we can create something special together. Beyond that, I wanted to challenge myself by trying to build a team from the ground up. My experience with Team Liquid was incredibly rewarding, and I cherished the time I spent with those players. They are all talented individuals, and I have immense respect for them. However, I felt that while I was an integral part of the team, it wasn’t entirely my own vision. I thought it would be exciting to explore a new direction and see what I could achieve independently,” Neta explained.Reflecting on his journey, Neta recalled the pivotal moments that shaped his career. “Winning The International 2024 was a dream come true. It was a culmination of hard work, dedication, and teamwork. But after such a high, I realized I wanted to carve out my own path. The competitive landscape is always evolving, and I wanted to be at the forefront of that evolution.”
He continued, “The decision to leave Team Liquid was not made lightly. I spent countless hours contemplating my future and what I wanted to achieve in the next chapter of my career. It’s easy to get comfortable in a successful team, but I felt a strong urge to push myself beyond my comfort zone. I believe that growth comes from challenges, and I wanted to embrace that.”After leaving Team Liquid, Neta joined Tundra Esports as their captain. “Joining Tundra felt like the perfect fit for me. They have a strong foundation and a commitment to excellence. I saw an opportunity to bring my vision to life and help develop a competitive roster. The potential within the team is immense, and I’m excited about what we can accomplish together.”
Neta also acknowledged the emotional weight of leaving a championship-winning team. “It was bittersweet. I had built great friendships and shared unforgettable moments with my former teammates. But at the same time, I felt a sense of liberation. It was a chance to create something new and innovative, and that excitement outweighed the sadness of leaving.”As he embarks on this new journey, Neta expressed his hopes for Tundra Esports. “I want to foster an environment where every player feels empowered to contribute their ideas and skills. Collaboration is key in this game, and I believe that a strong team dynamic can lead to incredible results. I want us to be known for our creativity and adaptability in matches.”
Looking ahead, Neta is determined to make a significant impact in the Dota 2 scene. “The competition is fierce, but I thrive under pressure. I want to push the boundaries and challenge the status quo. With the right mindset and hard work, I believe we can achieve great things together.”In conclusion, Neta “33” Shapira’s journey from Team Liquid to Tundra Esports is a testament to his ambition and desire for growth. As he steps into his role as captain, he carries with him the lessons learned from his past experiences, aiming to build a team that not only competes at the highest level but also embraces innovation and collaboration. The future looks bright for Neta and Tundra Esports, and fans are eager to see what this new chapter will bring.
