Sayori: “We realized that Gen.G Esports, just like any other team, always has room to grow.”
Gen.G Esports mid laner Jessica “Sayori” Kao, in a post-match interview with the organizers of the MLBB Women’s International 2026, speculated on the reasons why the roster lost their match against Natus Vincere PH in the lower bracket of the tournament’s group stage, and shared what the team had learned throughout the competition.
On the loss to Natus Vincere PH in the lower bracket
To be honest, we were confident. We knew we could beat NAVI PH, but once the match started, our play was a little different. Either we had communication issues, or our playstyle wasn’t what it usually is. We realize we could have played much better than we did. Our loss is quite disappointing.
On the Lessons Learned
A very important and key lesson for us was the pursuit of excellence. We realized that Gen.G Esports, just like any other team, always has room to grow. At the start of this MWI, there were plenty of reasons to be down, and yet there’s no clear favorite. Every team can compete for the championship title. There are a lot of contenders this year.
On Plans for the Future
I’m not entirely sure what I’ll do next. Our team needs to stay sharp. I believe in our squad, because the Gen.G Esports players have formed close bonds with one another and played a large number of matches together this year.
Still, my future plans depend on the roster; we need to figure out which direction the team will take. I’ll go along with whatever decision our team makes.
Gen.G Esports suffered a defeat against Natus Vincere PH in the lower bracket semifinals of the MWI 2026 group stage, resulting in their elimination from the competition. Sayori’s team finished in 9th–12th place in the international women’s tournament and earned $15,000 in prize money.
Photo: Esports Foundation.
Victor Kolosov
