Ame’s long and painful pursuit of the Aegis of Champions ended in heartbreak once again as Team Falcons edged out Xtreme Gaming 3-2 in a thrilling grand final at The International 2025. For the third time in his career, the Dota 2 veteran fell in the decisive match of the tournament.

The loss in Hamburg echoed Ame’s near misses in 2018 and 2021 with PSG.LGD, cementing his reputation as the “Uncrowned King” of Dota 2. Despite an inspiring lower bracket run that saw Xtreme Gaming eliminate several tournament favorites, Ame once more fell agonizingly short of lifting the most coveted trophy in the game.

For many fans, the defeat felt particularly cruel. Analysts noted that for the third time, a Magnus pick played a defining role in Ame’s final game loss, mirroring his earlier heartbreaks. It also extended China’s drought at The International, as Wings Gaming’s 2016 victory remains the last time the region claimed the title.

While Ame’s dream slipped away, Team Falcons secured their place in history. The MENA powerhouse went undefeated through the upper bracket and held their nerve in a tense 58-minute decider. Their composure brought them the organization’s first TI championship, along with the $1.1 million grand prize that solidified their rise among Dota 2’s elite.

Skiter shone as the standout performer of the final, earning MVP honors for his decisive impact. He and teammate Sneyking lifted their second Aegis, having previously triumphed with Tundra Esports in 2022. Their success reinforced the West’s dominance, with Falcons becoming the seventh team from the region to win The International.

The tournament also featured historic milestones. Aui_2000 became the first person to win three Internationals across roles as both player and coach, while Cr1t- finally achieved his first Aegis after nine appearances. These moments underscored the resilience and longevity required to thrive on Dota’s grandest stage.

For Ame, however, the ending remained bittersweet. With more than $4.4 million in career earnings and countless trophies, he is the most accomplished player never to claim the Aegis. His brilliance has defined an era, but his legacy continues to be shadowed by the prize that eludes him. As Team Falcons celebrated their entry into Dota’s most exclusive club, Ame and Chinese Dota were left searching for redemption that has now been out of reach for nearly a decade.

For more News on DOTA 2, check out Dota 2 Fans Disappointed as The International 2025 Ends Without New Hero Reveal on MOBA Nerd!