Valorant Masters Santiago brought together the 12 world’s best teams as they clashed for high-stakes battles to notch the championship title. The premier gaming competition was held from February 28 to March 15 in Santiago, Chile, with a total prize pool of $1,000,000.
Eight teams competed in the Swiss stage, then four regional teams advanced to the Playoff stage. After a fierce elimination run, two notable squads, Nongshim RedForce and Paper Rex, rose above the rest and earned their spot in the finals.
Grinding for Glory
Paper Rex entered as seasoned contenders, while Nongshim RedForce made their international debut at Valorant Masters Santiago. Both teams showed their sheer determination and unique play styles throughout the finals to claim victory.
Nongshim RedForce took the lead early, 13-11, over Paper Rex, after a close match in Corrode. The Split was lined up as the second map chosen by Paper Rex for the next game, yet Nongshim RedForce dominated 13-4.
In the third and last match, two teams showcased an intense battle on the tournament’s final map, Abyss. Nongshim RedForce overpowered Paper Rex in commanding performance, 13-3, which led them to secure the championship.
Crowned as the new champions, Nongshim RedForce bagged $350,000 along with Lee “Dambi” Hyuk-kyu being awarded as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP). Meanwhile, Paper Rex placed second and earned $200,000. This historic milestone makes Nongshim RedForce the first Ascension team to win the Valorant Masters title in their first year.