Pro gamer 'Faker' has made history as the only esports athlete to be named in Time's prestigious list of the '100 most influential people in sports'.

Time released its list of the 100 most influential sports figures for 2026 on the 9th. The list features athletes and coaches from traditional disciplines like skiing, basketball, American football, football, baseball, and skateboarding. It is, quite frankly, a significant milestone for an esports athlete to be recognised in such a traditional sporting domain.

Faker's inclusion by Time serves as proof that his impact transcends the confines of League of Legends, reflecting the global expansion of gaming culture and the mainstreaming of esports. Since his debut with T1, Lee has secured a staggering six World Championship titles, including a run of three consecutive victories. Even while still active, he became the first inductee into the League of Legends Hall of Legends. Beyond his mechanical prowess, his consistent charitable works and public outreach have played a massive role in shifting perceptions of esports for the better.

Time remarked, "Esports began in 1972 at Stanford University with a humble tournament where the winner received a subscription to Rolling Stone magazine. However, according to market research firm Grand View Research, the industry is projected to grow to a valuation of $7.46 billion (approximately 11 trillion KRW) by 2030," highlighting the mainstream shift of esports alongside the symbolic weight of Lee's career.

Other notable names on Time's list of the 100 most influential sports figures include basketball icon LeBron James, baseball star Shohei Ohtani, football legend Lionel Messi, tennis ace Jannik Sinner, and F1 driver Lando Norris.