by Topias “Topson” Taavitsainen, one of Dota 2’s most iconic mid-lane players, has announced his retirement following a third-place finish at The International 2024 (TI13) with Tundra Esports.
Regarded as one of the most spectacular players to watch, Topson’s rise to fame began when OG scouted him ahead of The International 8 (TI8) in 2018.
At the time, Topson had little competitive experience and was not expected to make a significant impact, but he quickly proved doubters wrong by leading OG to victory without losing a single series in the main event.
The following year, Topson and OG made history by winning The International 9 (TI9) in 2019, becoming the first team to win back-to-back TIs without losing a single playoff series.
From standing in at TI12, to getting third place at TI13
Pogson, Godson, Dadson – Topson ??
After many patches, countless tournaments and some crazy picks we will have to say farewell to Topson as he retires from competitive DotaThank you for everything and all the best. ?? pic.twitter.com/dE6Va6zj5T
— TUNDRA (@TundraEsports) September 24, 2024
Topson’s career, however, was not without its ups and downs.
After winning TI9, he took a break to focus on his family, returning to the competitive scene in 2022 as a stand-in for T1 and later committing to a full season with Tundra Esports in 2024.
Though his performances continued to meet fan expectations, he was unable to lift another trophy, including at TI13, where his dream of becoming the first three-time TI champion was dashed after Tundra was eliminated in third place by Gaimin Gladiators.
Throughout his eight-year career, Topson became known for his innovative playstyle, regularly choosing off-meta heroes and builds, which often set new trends within the Dota 2 community.
His bold and entertaining approach to the game won him legions of fans and cemented his place in Dota 2 history.
Despite stepping away from competition multiple times, Topson’s retirement this time seems more permanent.
At 26, with two children and nearly USD$6 million in prize money earned, Topson is focusing on family life.
Additionally, Finland’s mandatory military service may be another factor in his decision to retire, a path previously followed by fellow Finnish TI champion, Lasse “MATUMBAMAN” Urpalainen.
As Tundra Esports moves forward, it bids farewell to both Topson and Roman “RAMZES666” Kushnarev, who also announced his departure.
Despite these changes, the team is expected to compete in upcoming tournaments like PGL Wallachia Season 2 and potentially DreamLeague Season 24.
Topson’s retirement marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy as one of Dota 2’s greatest players.
While fans hope for his eventual return, his exit feels like a true farewell to the professional scene.
