Exclusive Interview with Tundra Esports’ Coach Aui_2000

In this exclusive interview series, we sit down with Kurtis “Aui_2000” Ling, the coach of Tundra Esports. With over a decade of experience in professional Dota, Aui_2000 has achieved success as both a player and a coach, including winning The International. Now, he faces his next challenge as he prepares Tundra Esports for TI12.

Focus on Yourself to Beat Gaimin Gladiators, Says Aui_2000

Gaimin Gladiators have been the dominant team of the Dota Pro Circuit this year, claiming three Major titles. However, Aui_2000 believes that the key to success is not trying to specifically prepare for certain teams, but rather focusing on becoming the best version of your own team.

While it’s important to analyze what other teams do well, such as Gladiators’ dominance on the runes, Aui_2000 emphasizes that it’s not about copying their strategies. Instead, teams should focus on improving themselves and their overall gameplay. When it comes to countering specific teams, Aui_2000 suggests focusing on drafting and early game movements.

Team Spirit’s Impressive Run at Riyadh Masters 2023

Another team that has shown significant improvement this year is Team Spirit. Despite some lackluster performances in the Majors, they surprised many by winning Riyadh Masters 2023. Aui_2000 highlights the change in their midlane player as a key factor in their success.

Denis “Larl” Sigitov replaced Alexander “TORONTOTOKYO” Khertek in the midlane, bringing a different playstyle to the team. While TORONTOTOKYO was known for his map pressure and aggressive play, Larl is more of a role player. Aui_2000 commends Team Spirit for successfully incorporating Larl into their established core of four players.

Despite the challenges of integrating a new player, Aui_2000 believes that Team Spirit’s ability to reinvent themselves and reach a high level of play is impressive. He also acknowledges the skill of players like Collapse and Yatoro in contributing to their success.

As this interview was conducted before Tundra Esports’ roster change was announced, Aui_2000 now finds himself in a similar situation. With Topias “Topson” Taavitsainen joining the team, Tundra Esports hopes to achieve the same level of success as Team Spirit.

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