With more than 660 million gamers, China has firmly established itself as one of the biggest forces in the global esports scene. At the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC), China stands out as the most represented country, sending over 150 players across 16 different games.
The tournament gives China yet another chance to showcase its dominance. With a massive gaming population estimated at 668 million, the country’s influence in esports only continues to grow.
China’s Esports Journey
China recognized esports as an official sport back in 2003, making it one of the first countries to do so. Professional players and operators are officially recognized as legitimate occupations. Esports has even been featured in major multi-sport events like the Asian Games, proving how deeply the industry is rooted in the country.
Chinese teams have been preparing for success at EWC 2025, but challenges remain. For instance, AG.AL International, one of China’s top teams, needs to win at least one tournament to secure first place in the Club Championship. On the other hand, VK Gaming, the winners of the ALGS: 2025 Midseason Playoffs, won’t qualify for the championship due to not competing in other tournaments.
A Legacy of Success in Esports
China has been a key player in games like Dota 2 and League of Legends for years.
In Dota 2, China used to dominate alongside Europe and North America, taking turns lifting the Aegis of Champions. However, after 2021, the Chinese Dota scene faced major struggles due to a player exodus caused by match-fixing issues. But the past year has seen a revival, with tournaments like the Immortal Cup bringing back top players and sparking hope for a new era.
In League of Legends, China started slow but now ranks among the strongest regions in the world. After Royal Club’s early success in 2013 and 2014, the LPL began its golden era in 2018, with Chinese teams regularly defeating their Korean rivals.
So far, Chinese teams have won three League of Legends World Championships and three Dota 2 Internationals, proving their staying power in competitive gaming.
Intense Rivalries
Esports wouldn’t be complete without rivalries, and China vs. South Korea is one of the fiercest.
South Korea has long been an esports pioneer, with legendary players like Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok and strict training systems that produce champions. But China has countered with huge investments, a vast talent pool, and strong organizations, creating a true clash of titans.
A new rivalry is also emerging between China and Saudi Arabia, as both countries fight for dominance in the global esports space. Team Falcons from Saudi Arabia won the 2024 EWC, but Chinese teams are aiming to change that narrative this year.
Top Chinese Teams to Watch at EWC 2025
AG.AL International
A combination of All Gamers and Anyone’s Legend, this organization is one of China’s strongest contenders. They’ve reached finals in League of Legends and Free Fire at EWC 2025 and are competing in Call of Duty: Warzone, PUBG BATTLEGROUNDS, and the OWCS Midseason Championship. One first-place finish could secure their Club Championship win.
KuaiShou Gaming
Known for its success in fighting games, the team recently took second place in FATAL FURY: COTW and will compete in Street Fighter 6 later in the tournament.
Wolves Esports
In partnership with the English football club Wolverhampton Wanderers, Wolves Esports impressed at the Apex Legends Global Series 2025 and will also compete in TEKKEN 8 and Teamfight Tactics.
Weibo Gaming
This powerhouse is competing in seven titles at EWC 2025. While their StarCraft 2 and FATAL FURY teams didn’t score, plenty of matches remain in Teamfight Tactics, Street Fighter 6, and other games.
