The head of Valve did not appear at The International 2024. Video

Gabe 'Gaben' Newell, the founder of Valve, did not attend the opening ceremony of The International 2024, despite fan expectations.

During the start of the finals, the traditional phrase from the Valve founder, 'Welcome to The International,' was played. However, it was pre-recorded and shown on the main screen of the arena. It is worth noting that previously Gaben always personally opened the main part of The International, but since 2022, he has stopped this tradition and now only appears at the championship in recorded form.

This disappointed many fans, as his presence added significance to the event, given that it was thanks to him and Valve that Dota 2, which became a global phenomenon, came into existence.

Recall that earlier Alexander 'Nix' Levin stated that Valve banned him from watching the final of The International 2024.