Team Liquid expressed dissatisfaction with the format of the Riyadh Masters 2025

Samuel “Boxi” Swan said that he did not like the absence of a lower bracket at Riyadh Masters 2025, as it contradicts the concept of team development during the tournament.

The Team Liquid player made this statement on YouTube.

“I don't really like the lack of a lower bracket. Because most tournaments, in my opinion, are designed so that you gain experience and learn something new as the tournament progresses. At least that's how it works for us.”

The Riyadh Masters 2025 tournament was held in a single elimination format. After the initial group stage, all matches were played exclusively on a knockout basis, with no chance to advance to the grand final through the lower bracket after the first defeat. Part of the community responded positively to this format, noting that it makes the tournament more exciting, but not all participants liked the lack of a second chance.

As a reminder, Samuel “Boxi” Swan was previously named MVP of Team Liquid at the Riyadh Masters 2025 Dota 2 tournament.