The Riyadh Masters 2025 Dota 2 tournament saw Natus Vincere`s run conclude, prompting their carry player, Artem “Niku” Bachkur, to share his thoughts on the team`s performance and exit.
In comments made following their loss to Team Falcons, Niku was direct in his assessment, stating that things transpired “very bad” for the squad. He openly admitted that, in the crucial match against Falcons, his team “didn`t really have a chance to win.”
Pinpointing the reasons behind their defeat, Niku attributed it to fundamental issues: “bad drafts, bad execution.” This straightforward critique highlights specific areas where the team fell short during their time in the tournament.
Niku also contrasted NAVI`s situation with that of top-tier teams like Team Falcons. He observed that stronger teams consistently bring their absolute best, even when matched against less favored opponents. Their ability to prepare thoroughly and execute flawlessly in-game, Niku suggested, is underpinned by simply having “more experience.” This matter-of-fact observation underscores the level required to compete at the highest echelon.
With the Riyadh Masters campaign finished, Niku confirmed that Natus Vincere`s attention will now shift towards their next major objective: The International 2025.
Expressing the team`s ambition to perform on Dota 2`s grandest stage, Niku outlined their goal to maximize their potential and secure a place in the playoffs at TI. When presented with the notion of seeking revenge against Team Falcons at The International, Niku responded with a confident, yet humorously delivered, assertion: “Yes, of course, with a 2:0 score,” a remark accompanied by laughter in the interview, perhaps acknowledging the challenge such a task presents.
Natus Vincere ultimately fell to Team Falcons with a 0-2 scoreline in the second round of the Elimination Phase at Riyadh Masters 2025. The result placed NAVI in the 9th-12th position, earning them a prize of $75,000.