Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok has been named to the inaugural TIME100 Sports list, recognising the 100 most influential figures in global sports.
The League of Legends midlaner is the standout esports representative on a list TIME revealed on June 9, 2026, headlined by four-time NBA champion LeBron James on the cover.
In its profile, the magazine calls Faker widely regarded as the best esports player of all time. It notes his record six League of Legends world championships with T1, his South Korean team, including the last three, as well as his status as the first inductee into the League of Legends Hall of Legends.
Faker thanked TIME and esports fans worldwide in a post on his Instagram. His agency FANABLE welcomed the selection, stating:
This recognition reflects not only Lee's personal achievements but also the status of esports as it redefines modern sports and expands its influence on the global stage.
One detail in the profile has been questioned. According to a report by , Faker holds stock options to acquire a stake in T1 but has not yet exercised them, contrary to TIME's description of him as an equity co-owner.
