The 2024 Shanghai Esports Masters (SEM) concluded with great success at the Jing’an Sports Center in Shanghai, China, on December 8. Over the five-day competition, approximately 100 players from around the globe competed in four exciting events, showcasing the rapid growth and international appeal of esports.
Since its inception in 2019, the SEM has mirrored the evolving landscape of esports audiences. With more people gaining a deeper understanding of competitive gaming, esports events have expanded beyond professional tournaments hosted by game developers to include national events open to the general public.
“The fact that more and more people like esports shows that esports are also gaining recognition from society,” said esports enthusiast Zhou Beiqing. “As an esports fan, I feel that I have chosen the right hobby.”
This year’s SEM attracted more top-tier players than ever before, including Hangzhou Asian Games Arena of Valor gold medalist Luo Siyuan and Valorant player Liang Youhao. Their participation highlights the event’s growing prestige within the esports community.
“I think it is a great honor to be able to represent Honor of Kings and attend the opening ceremony,” said Luo Siyuan. “I will try my best in the competition and hope to have another chance to fight for our country.”
“I hope that the future of esports will be prosperous,” added Liang Youhao. “I feel a unique enthusiasm and passion in it, which creates a different atmosphere.”
After years of development, the SEM has become a benchmark for third-party esports events. One of the original goals of the tournament was to help more people understand and enjoy watching esports.
“In the future, the esports audience will not be limited to fans of game manufacturers,” said Zhu Qinqin, secretary-general of the tournament. “We want more people to understand, know, and watch esports. Many departments in Shanghai, including leaders, are involved. We aim to expand the influence and popularity of esports through third-party events, which is why we founded the Shanghai Esports Masters.”
The success of the 2024 SEM reflects the booming interest in esports globally, and its role in bringing people together through shared passion and competition.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
