League of Legends esports has delivered some of the most legendary performances in competitive gaming. While players and teams make headlines, champion picks are often what turn moments into history. Certain picks transcend the game itself, becoming symbols of eras, metas, and unforgettable plays.
This article dives into the most iconic champion picks in esports history, highlighting the champions that shaped tournaments, defined players, and left a permanent mark on the competitive scene.
Faker’s LeBlanc – Worlds 2013
When discussing iconic champions, it’s impossible not to start with Faker’s LeBlanc. In the 2013 OGN Champions Summer Final, Faker faced off against Ryu and delivered one of the most replayed clips in esports. His lightning-fast combos and mechanical precision cemented LeBlanc as a terrifying pick in his hands.
- Impact: LeBlanc bans skyrocketed whenever Faker was on stage.
- Legacy: Even today, the name Faker’s LeBlanc strikes fear into fans and opponents alike.
Uzi’s Vayne – Multiple Seasons
Jian “Uzi” Zi-Hao is widely regarded as one of the best ADCs of all time, and his Vayne performances are legendary. Known for his aggressive, precise kiting, Uzi redefined how the hyper-carry should be played.
- Highlights: His Vayne outplays at Worlds and LPL Finals remain some of the most-watched clips on YouTube.
- Legacy: Whenever fans think of Vayne, they think of Uzi.
Doinb’s Nautilus – Worlds 2019
In a world where mid lane was dominated by assassins and mages, Kim “Doinb” Tae-sang shocked everyone by pulling out Nautilus mid during FunPlus Phoenix’s 2019 Worlds run.
- Impact: Redefined mid lane champion pools by introducing tank utility in pro play.
- Legacy: Demonstrated that unconventional picks could win the biggest stage in LoL.
Bengi’s Olaf – Worlds 2015
SK Telecom’s legendary jungler Bengi showcased a masterclass with Olaf during Worlds 2015. Known for his selfless style, Bengi used Olaf not just to farm but to peel, disrupt, and engage at the perfect moments.
- Impact: A pick that shifted jungle meta temporarily.
- Legacy: Cemented Bengi as “the right hand of God,” always complementing Faker’s playstyle.
Mata’s Thresh – Worlds 2014
Cho “Mata” Se-hyeong is one of the greatest supports of all time, and his Thresh at Samsung White’s Worlds 2014 run was a defining pick. His hooks and lanterns weren’t just skillful—they were game-changing.
- Impact: Influenced an entire generation of supports.
- Legacy: Known as the “Thresh King,” Mata set the gold standard for support play.
Caps’ Irelia – Worlds 2018
Rasmus “Caps” Winther stunned fans with his Irelia during Fnatic’s run to the Worlds 2018 Finals. His mechanical mastery in clutch situations, especially against Invictus Gaming, was unforgettable.
- Impact: Proved Western mids could go toe-to-toe with LPL and LCK stars.
- Legacy: Marked Caps as one of the best Western mids of all time.
Dyrus’ Singed – NA LCS Era
Marcus “Dyrus” Hill’s Singed may not have been the flashiest pick, but it was iconic for North American fans. His fearless proxy farming defined an era of TSM dominance.
- Impact: Popularized unconventional lane pressure in NA.
- Legacy: Singed remains tied to Dyrus in fans’ memories.
Ambition’s Jarvan IV – Worlds 2017
Kang “Ambition” Chan-yong’s story is already legendary, but his Jarvan IV at Worlds 2017 was the exclamation point. His engages and leadership helped Samsung Galaxy dethrone SK Telecom T1 in the Finals.
- Impact: Defined engage comps at the time.
- Legacy: Became a symbol of redemption and perseverance.
Other Unforgettable Champion Picks
- xPeke’s Kassadin – Known for the iconic backdoor play.
- Perkz’s Yasuo – A Western mid laner fearless enough to bring Yasuo to the biggest stages.
- InSec’s Lee Sin – The “InSec Kick” became a universal term because of his innovation.
- TheShy’s Fiora – Split-push domination during IG’s Worlds 2018 victory.
- Clearlove’s Evelynn – Legendary in the LPL as a symbol of early jungle dominance.
Why These Picks Matter
These champions weren’t just powerful at the time—they were tied to legendary performances that shaped narratives, inspired fans, and evolved the meta. Iconic picks:
- Create unforgettable highlights.
- Inspire new players to try champions.
- Cement legacies of professional players.
Conclusion
The most iconic champion picks in esports history aren’t just about statistics or meta strength—they’re about moments. Faker’s LeBlanc, Uzi’s Vayne, Mata’s Thresh—these picks tell the story of competitive League of Legends itself.
Next time you lock in one of these champions, remember: you’re carrying the weight of esports history on your shoulders.
