The International 2024 is just around the corner, and the entire Dota 2 community is eagerly watching the teams considered the top favourites for the championship. Every year, only the strongest make it to the top, and this year will be no exception. In this article, we'll analyze the tournament favourites, their journey to TI, the key factors behind their success, and explore which teams have the best chances to claim the Aegis this year.

The Top Contenders

Let’s dive into the main favourites for this year's TI. Which teams are most likely to come out on top and why? Let's find out.

Gaimin Gladiators
This team have burst onto the Dota 2 scene as one of the strongest teams in recent years. Finalists at The International 2023, they have consistently been among the top contenders throughout the year. Despite a heartbreaking loss to Team Spirit in the TI12 finals, Gaimin Gladiators have not lost their fighting spirit and continue to dominate the professional scene. Their consistency, skill, and relentless drive for victory keep them in the spotlight during the 2024 season. Now, they have a chance to avenge last year's defeat and potentially secure their first TI championship.

Team Spirit
These players have already cemented their place in Dota 2 history as two-time The International champions, having won in 2021 and 2023. Team Spirit has proven that their success was no fluke, and even after a roster change in the mid lane, they continue to showcase a high level of play and an unyielding will to win. Now, at The International 2024, Team Spirit is aiming to set a new record by becoming the first team to claim the championship title three times. No other team in the tournament's history has managed to achieve such a feat.

Team Liquid
This organisation has been a mainstay at The International for many years. Their triumph in 2017 remains one of the most memorable victories in the tournament's history. However, after that success, the team struggled to regain their former glory, often finding themselves overshadowed by new stars on the scene. In recent years, Team Liquid has frequently reached the finals but has been plagued by the "curse of second place," unable to secure the ultimate victory. Despite these setbacks, the team maintains its fighting spirit and experience, which could be crucial at The International 2024. This tournament might just be the turning point for Team Liquid, where they finally lift the Aegis of Champions and put their past disappointments behind them.

Xtreme Gaming
Stands out as the top Chinese representative at this year’s TI. While the team has shown inconsistent results over the year, their convincing victories at Clavision: Snow Ruyi and strong performances at PGL Wallachia Season 1 have bolstered their confidence heading into TI 2024. Thanks to their cohesive teamwork and solid performances, Xtreme Gaming has positioned themselves as one of the contenders to watch at The International 2024.

Falcons
This team have emerged as one of the breakout teams of the season, demonstrating their strength on the international stage. This team, which has repeatedly proven its skill, secured victories at ESL One Birmingham 2024 and Dreamleague Seasons 22 and 23. These achievements have solidified their status among the Dota 2 elite. With these successes, Falcons enter TI 2024 with high confidence and excellent team synergy, making them one of the top contenders for the title at this year’s The International.

Conclusion

The International 2024 promises to be one of the most intriguing and exciting tournaments in Dota 2 history. Each of the favorite teams has a unique story, motivation, and strength that could lead them to victory. Gaimin Gladiators seek revenge for last year’s loss, Team Spirit dreams of making history, Team Liquid strives to overcome their past failures, while Xtreme Gaming and Falcons aim to prove that they can conquer the world stage. No matter who ultimately wins, spectators will witness incredible battles and fierce competition for the most prestigious trophy in Dota 2 — the Aegis of Champions.The International 2024: Top Teams to Watch and Their Journey to the Aegis