The drought is finally over for 100 Thieves. In a stunning display of composure and tactical brilliance, the North American squad hoisted the trophy at the Esports World Cup 2026 in Paris, cementing their status as the current kings of the Valorant scene.
Defeating the reigning world champions, NRG, with a decisive 3-1 scoreline in the Grand Final, 100 Thieves proved that their roster rebuild was more than just a gamble—it was a masterclass in team synergy. The victory marks the organization’s first-ever S-Tier international title, a milestone that has eluded them for six years of competition.
A Dominant Path to Glory
100 Thieves entered the tournament with a blend of veteran presence and raw rookie talent that many analysts questioned. However, the squad—featuring long-time face of the org Peter "Asuna" Mazuryk alongside the explosive Matthew "Cryocells" Panganiban and rookie IGL Jordan "vora" Pulwer—silenced the doubters immediately.
After navigating a brutal "Group of Death," the team maintained their momentum through the playoffs. They dispatched MIBR 2-1 in the quarterfinals and overcame Nongshim RedForce by the same scoreline to set up a high-stakes Americas derby against NRG.
The Grand Final was a testament to their resilience. After taking Breeze (13-7) and Sunset (13-6) to build a commanding lead, they faced a fierce pushback from NRG on Haven. With NRG looking to turn the tide on Ascent, 100 Thieves mounted a legendary defensive comeback, forcing overtime and clinching the map 14-12 to secure the championship.
What This Means for the Future
For Cryocells, who was named tournament MVP, this performance confirms his place among the world's elite. For the organization, this trophy validates the decision to lean into a new, younger core. While NRG remains a dangerous rival, the power dynamic in the Americas has undeniably shifted.
As the dust settles in Paris, all eyes turn toward the next international window. 100 Thieves have proven they can peak when it matters most, and with this momentum, they enter the next phase of the season as the team to beat.
For those looking to track their performance or analyze upcoming matchups, keep an eye on our MyEsports predictions for the latest insights.