The 2017 League of Legends World Championship, or Worlds as it's commonly known, was a defining moment in esports history. The tournament showcased incredible skill, nail-biting matches, and ultimately, the crowning of a new champion. But who exactly were these champions? This article dives into the roster of the team that lifted the Summoner's Cup in 2017, exploring their roles, their journey, and their lasting impact on the game.

Samsung Galaxy: The Underdogs Who Conquered the World

Samsung Galaxy (SSG) entered the 2017 World Championship as a team with potential, but not necessarily the favorites. While they had a strong showing in the LCK (League of Legends Champions Korea), considered by many to be the most competitive region, they weren't always the dominant force. However, Worlds is a different beast altogether, and SSG proved that preparation, adaptability, and a bit of underdog spirit can take you all the way. They navigated the group stage with a solid performance and then began their climb through the bracket stage, overcoming challenges and demonstrating strategic prowess that surprised many analysts and fans alike. Their journey was marked by calculated risks, innovative gameplay, and a remarkable ability to perform under pressure. The team's synergy and individual player skills shone brightly as they progressed through the tournament, setting the stage for an epic final showdown. This victory wasn't just a win for Samsung Galaxy; it was a testament to the unpredictable nature of League of Legends esports and the power of teamwork. It cemented their place in LoL history and inspired countless players and aspiring professionals around the globe. Their unexpected triumph served as a reminder that anything is possible with dedication, hard work, and a well-executed game plan. The legacy of SSG's 2017 Worlds victory continues to resonate within the League of Legends community, celebrated as a classic example of how a team can rise above expectations and achieve greatness on the world stage. It’s a story of perseverance and strategic brilliance that will be retold for years to come.

The Players: A Deep Dive into the Championship Roster

Let's get into the heart of the matter: the players themselves. Each member of Samsung Galaxy played a crucial role in their victory, bringing unique skills and contributing to the team's overall strategy. Here's a breakdown of the roster:

• Top Laner: Lee "CuVee" Seong-jin: CuVee was the rock of SSG's top lane. Known for his consistent performance and ability to play both carry and tank champions, CuVee provided stability and adaptability to the team's composition. His intelligent map awareness and calculated aggression made him a formidable opponent. He was instrumental in controlling the top side of the map, allowing his jungler to make impactful plays elsewhere. CuVee's contributions extended beyond individual skill; his leadership and experience helped guide the team through challenging situations. His ability to absorb pressure and create opportunities for his teammates made him a vital asset to Samsung Galaxy's success.
• Jungler: Kang "Ambition" Chan-yong: Ambition, the veteran jungler, was the brains of the operation. His strategic vision, exceptional game knowledge, and calculated decision-making were instrumental in guiding SSG's gameplay. He expertly controlled the jungle, effectively ganking lanes and securing objectives. Ambition's ability to read the game and anticipate his opponents' moves allowed him to stay one step ahead. His leadership and mentorship were invaluable to his younger teammates, fostering a cohesive and confident team environment. Beyond his strategic prowess, Ambition's resilience and determination inspired his team to overcome adversity. His journey to the top was a testament to his unwavering commitment to improvement and his ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of professional League of Legends.
• Mid Laner: Lee "Crown" Min-ho: Crown was the team's reliable mid laner. His champion pool was vast, allowing him to counter-pick opponents and adapt to different team compositions. His calm and collected demeanor provided stability to the team, especially in high-pressure situations. Crown's consistent performance and ability to play both carry and utility champions made him a versatile asset. He was instrumental in controlling the mid lane, providing vision and creating opportunities for his teammates to make plays. Beyond his individual skill, Crown's willingness to sacrifice for the team's success made him a valuable asset. His unwavering focus and dedication to improvement were instrumental in Samsung Galaxy's victory.
• AD Carry: Park "Ruler" Jae-hyuk: Ruler, the young gun AD Carry, was the team's primary damage dealer. His exceptional mechanics, aggressive playstyle, and ability to position himself effectively in team fights made him a force to be reckoned with. He consistently delivered high damage output, carrying his team to victory in countless games. Ruler's growth throughout the tournament was remarkable, showcasing his dedication to improvement and his willingness to learn from his mistakes. His confidence and determination inspired his teammates to play at their best. Beyond his individual skill, Ruler's positive attitude and unwavering belief in his team made him a valuable asset. He was a rising star in the League of Legends scene, and his performance at Worlds cemented his place among the elite.
• Support: Jo "CoreJJ" Yong-in: CoreJJ, the versatile support player, was the glue that held the team together. His exceptional game knowledge, strategic vision, and ability to make impactful plays made him an invaluable asset. He expertly protected his AD Carry, provided vision control, and initiated team fights. CoreJJ's leadership and experience helped guide the team through challenging situations. His understanding of the game and his ability to adapt to different playstyles made him a versatile asset. Beyond his individual skill, CoreJJ's willingness to sacrifice for the team's success made him a valuable asset. He was a true team player, and his contributions were essential to Samsung Galaxy's victory.

The Strategies and Playstyles That Defined Their Victory

Samsung Galaxy's victory wasn't just about individual skill; it was about their well-defined strategies and adaptable playstyles. They demonstrated a remarkable ability to read their opponents, identify weaknesses, and exploit them effectively. Their strategic flexibility allowed them to adapt to different team compositions and playstyles, giving them a significant advantage. They were masters of objective control, effectively securing towers, dragons, and Barons to gain a decisive lead. Their calculated aggression allowed them to pressure their opponents and force them into mistakes. They were also adept at playing defensively, patiently waiting for opportunities to strike. Their ability to transition seamlessly between different playstyles made them a formidable opponent. In particular, Ambition's jungle pathing and objective control were critical, allowing Ruler to scale into the late game and carry team fights. CuVee's ability to hold his own in the top lane against some of the world's best top laners gave SSG the breathing room they needed to execute their strategies. Crown's champion pool and ability to play both carry and utility roles added another layer of flexibility to the team's composition. CoreJJ's vision control and peel for Ruler were essential for keeping the AD carry alive and dealing damage in team fights. This strategic depth and adaptability were key factors in their success.

Where Are They Now? The Legacy of the 2017 Champions

So, what happened to these champions after their victory? The world of esports is dynamic, and players often move between teams or transition into different roles. Some members of the 2017 Samsung Galaxy roster continued to compete professionally, while others have moved into coaching, streaming, or other related fields. Their legacy, however, remains firmly etched in League of Legends history. They are remembered as the underdogs who conquered the world, inspiring countless players and aspiring professionals. Their victory serves as a reminder that anything is possible with dedication, hard work, and a well-executed game plan. Their names will forever be associated with the 2017 World Championship, a testament to their skill, teamwork, and unwavering determination. Though the team may have disbanded, their impact on the game and the esports community continues to resonate. They set a new standard for strategic gameplay and demonstrated the importance of adaptability and teamwork in achieving success. Their story is a source of inspiration for players around the globe, proving that even the underdogs can rise to the top and claim the ultimate prize.

Conclusion: Remembering the Reign of Samsung Galaxy

The 2017 League of Legends World Championship was a tournament to remember, and Samsung Galaxy's victory was a defining moment. Their roster, filled with talented players and strategic masterminds, etched their names into esports history. From CuVee's top lane dominance to Ambition's calculated jungle pathing, Crown's mid-lane versatility, Ruler's explosive damage output, and CoreJJ's unwavering support, each player contributed to the team's overall success. Their strategies, playstyles, and adaptability set them apart from the competition, allowing them to overcome challenges and ultimately lift the Summoner's Cup. Their legacy continues to inspire players and fans alike, serving as a reminder that anything is possible with dedication, hard work, and a well-executed game plan. So, the next time you think about the 2017 League of Legends World Championship, remember the names of the Samsung Galaxy champions: CuVee, Ambition, Crown, Ruler, and CoreJJ. They were the underdogs who conquered the world, and their story will forever be celebrated in the annals of esports history. Guys this is so cool!