Table of Contents
Team Liquid’s captain, Aydin “Insania” Sarkohi, has officially announced his retirement from professional Dota 2, marking the end of a remarkable journey filled with major wins, unforgettable moments, and years of leadership. The 31-year-old player ended his career after The International 2025, where Team Liquid couldn’t make it past the group stage. Though the finish was disappointing, Insania’s contribution to the Dota 2 scene remains one of the most respected in recent years.
A Journey of Growth and Glory
Before joining Dota 2, Insania was a professional Heroes of Newerth player. He made the switch in 2015, showing strong adaptability and game sense from the very start. In 2017, he joined Alliance, and by 2019, he became part of Team Liquid as captain. His calm yet strategic leadership became a key reason behind Liquid’s consistent top-tier performances.
Under his captaincy, Liquid went from underdogs to one of the most feared teams in Dota 2. For years, they were known for finishing second at major tournaments a streak fans jokingly called the “second-place curse.” But in 2024, Insania finally led his team to break that curse by winning The International 2024, the biggest prize in competitive Dota 2. It was the highlight of his career and the moment that defined his legacy.
Major Achievements of Insania
Across nearly a decade in Dota 2, Insania earned more than $2 million in total prize money and secured several major titles, including:
- 1st place: ESL One Germany 2020
- 3rd place: The International 2022
- 2nd place: Riyadh Masters 2023
- 2nd place: Riyadh Masters 2024
- 1st place: The International 2024
- 1st place: PGL Wallachia Season 3
- 1st place: PGL Wallachia Season 4
These results show how consistent and impactful he was throughout his playing career.
The End of an Era: The Swedish Trio
Insania’s retirement also marks the end of Dota 2’s longest-standing trio Insania, miCKe, and Boxi. The three first teamed up in 2017 under Alliance, and their bond carried them through roster changes, defeats, and victories for almost eight years. Together, they reached countless finals and finally lifted the Aegis of Champions at The International 2024.
While miCKe and Boxi continue to compete at the highest level, their success story wouldn’t have been complete without Insania’s leadership. His steady presence, deep game understanding, and supportive mindset helped shape Liquid into a powerhouse team.
Also Read: Vici Gaming Returns To Dota 2 With A Powerful New Lineup
