xNova on TI 2026: "Expectations from us will be very high, and there will no doubt be tension"

Xtreme Gaming support Jian 'xNova' Wei Yap, in an interview at The International 2026, recalled how the previous tournament in the series took place, discussed the impact of playing at home, and also spoke about the team’s mood.

[This year TI is taking place under completely different conditions for you. You came to the last tournament as a substitute player. What was your mood when you boarded the plane to Hamburg? ] Last year I came as a replacement player, so I didn't feel much pressure at The International. I really enjoyed the whole tournament, right up to the final.

[ Was there ever one moment when you started to realize that things were getting really serious? That this is not just entertainment, that you have gone far enough? Or did you always say: “What will be will be”? ] I was most nervous going into the first game against Tundra Esports in the playoffs. Yes, that was the only time I felt out of place. But I adapted immediately.

[ It seems to me that you are usually a pretty calm person. For example, when you come to a tournament, you’re not particularly nervous. This is true? ] Not really. Sometimes I get really nervous. But I feel like I play best when I'm really calm and enjoying the whole experience - the atmosphere, the vibe, the games.

[ If it’s not a secret, how do you feel here in Shanghai? ] I think now I'm trying to catch up and get to the state that I had last year. This year I had a rather long season, compared to the previous one, where I only participated in a couple of tournaments. So yes, I am slowly catching up and hope that I can enjoy the tournament as much as I did last year.

[ How does this rhythm feel? For example, last year you were nervous before playing Tundra Esports. After the win, you got into the rhythm again. How do you feel at such moments? Are your mouse clicks clearer? Do you just understand what needs to be done? How would you describe it? ] I pay attention to everything, almost everything. I enjoy what I do. I am completely focused, and every ability used and predicted action of the opponents all happens in sync.

[ Xtreme Gaming is getting a lot of attention at this TI. Many people are watching you. Do you feel pressure from the audience? Or does it instead fuel you? ] We're definitely playing at home. Expectations from us will be very high and there will no doubt be tension.

[ Do you think the advantage of the home arena lies not only in the spectators, but also, as Bach said, due to the fact that you see Chinese characters and feel at home, right? ] Yes, sure. I think we're just comfortable here.

We had some difficulties during the year. There were both ups and downs. But now, I think we are mentally prepared for the tournament.

Xtreme Gaming played three series within the group stage of The International 2026 - the team won one victory and suffered two defeats.