On June 1, the BRICS Championship powered by Sber took part in Moscow. This was the third time the tournament was held, and this year it welcomed athletes from 21 countries. Among them was Sydney Michelle KYōi Wood, a player from South Africa. PR-department of the Russian Esports Federation took the opportunity to speak with Sydney.
Although KYōi did not make it to the playoff stage, she delivered a strong performance and gained invaluable experience that will undoubtedly help her in future competitions.
In this interview, Sydney Michelle KYōi Wood shares her journey into esports, why she chose Tekken, her future plans, and advice for girls who just beginning their esports journey.
– Tell us about your path in esports. Why did you choose Tekken 8?
– I’ve loved Tekken since I was a child — I started playing from the very first version. I had a PlayStation 1 and Tekken was one of the games on it. I kept playing as new versions came out.
– Is this your first time in Russia? Do you have a list of places you’d like to visit?
– Yes, it’s my first time in Russia. Honestly, I don’t have a list of places I specifically want to visit. I trust my team manager, who has already been to Russia four times and knows what’s worth seeing. He’s made a list of attractions for us.
– You played in the group stage but didn’t make it to the playoffs. What was the most challenging part? Share your emotions
– There were both easy and tough matches. The most difficult one was definitely against Zhoulin XCC Chen. Of course, I was disappointed that I didn’t make it to the second day of the tournament. But I’ve only been training seriously for the past five months. I’m not discouraged — I love the competitive spirit, and I’ll continue training hard when I get back home.
– Did you analyze your opponents before the tournament? What do you think you lacked to win?
– First and foremost, experience. I definitely had less of it compared to others. I knew going in that the players in Russia would be stronger, so I didn’t expect to take a top spot. I came mainly for the competitive experience — and I got that, which is the most important thing. I didn’t review my opponents’ matches before the tournament. Hopefully, I’ll be able to return next year and show everything I’ve learned.
– Tell us about your tournament preparation process
– I’m part of a team, and we get together often to train. In my free time, I watch matches from top Tekken players and try to analyze their gameplay and apply it myself. Among my favorite streamers are Mr. Croft and Silantro. I also often find high-level players online and practice with them.
– Is esports supported by the government or private companies in South Africa?
– Yes, there are opportunities for the development of women in esports in our country. The main challenge is finding them (laughs). The government provides support, but I can’t say for sure about private companies.
– What do you do outside of esports? Or is it your full-time job?
– I have a full-time job, but in the future, I would like esports to become my main source of income. I know that means more dedication and training. In my free time, I enjoy drawing, singing, and creating content for my social media (smiles).
– Lately, women’s esports has been growing rapidly. Women’s teams invite to tier-1 tournaments. Is there a female esports player who inspires you?
– The male scene is definitely more developed at the moment, which is why most of the players I follow are men. But there is one female player I really admire — Yuyu from Japan. It’s my dream to meet her and play a match.
– Name Tekken players you’d most like to meet and play against?
– I’d love another chance to play against Mr. Croft, whom I mentioned earlier. I’ve played him before, but I’d like to face him again. I’d also love to meet Silantro, Knee, and Arslan.
– Have you faced criticism from other players, saying women are worse at esports?
– Very often, unfortunately. I’ve heard a lot of comments that women don’t belong in esports and that men play better and more professionally. That’s one reason I often play without using a mic — once they hear a female voice, the judgment starts. Many male players underestimate women’s esports. But we just need more time and practice, and we can definitely compete at the same level. My advice to all girlies: ignore the negativity, keep playing, and train for your own joy. The best thing you can do is train and keep pushing. Never let anyone make you doubt yourself. Stay focused on your own journey and your own game.
– How do your family and relatives feel about your esports career?
– I live with my grandparents, and they’re fully supportive of my passion for esports.
– Name your top 3 characters in Tekken 8
– Ling Xiaoyu, Lars, and Bryan Fury.
– What are your top 3 must-visit places in South Africa? Places that give you energy and where you love to spend time?
– If you visit South Africa, I highly recommend the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, the Garden Route National Park, and Table Mountain.
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