Tang ‘EmiliaQAQ’ Junjie, player for Lynn Vision, has revealed details of his emotional journey in professional Counter-Strike.
The charismatic Chinese competitor has become a fan favourite at the BLAST Austin Major. Viewers have enjoyed his emphatic celebrations and humorous interviews. However, his journey in the competitive scene has not been smooth sailing.
Lynn Vision and EmiliaQAQ take the Austin Major by storm
After qualifying for Stage One through the Chinese Regional Qualifier, Lynn Vision has fought a successful uphill battle to reach Stage Three of the competition.
The underdog team even managed to snatch a win from extremely high-ranked competitors, Team Falcons, who would later suffer from early elimination. However, it is the team’s character and determination that have earned them the respect and love of fans at the Austin Major.
Central to the team’s charisma is EmiliaQAQ. The player has consistently made headlines since the Major began on June 3rd for their efforts to engage in interviews, iconic win celebrations, and being only level 6 in FaceIt ranks.
“I’m capable of supporting this family,” EmiliaQAQ pleads
Following Lynn Vision’s unexpected progression to Stage Three of the competition, EmiliaQAQ shared a more raw and honest perspective on his competitive journey.
“Mom, on the day I decided to go pro, you cried and begged me not to. But our family had no other source of income — everything depended on you alone. I wanted to share some of that burden. I didn’t want to be a weight on your shoulders. I wanted to prove to you that I’m capable of supporting this family, to give you and my brother a better life.
Dad, it’s really been a long time. I miss you.”
After posting his story to the Chinese social media app, Douyin, he has received an outpouring of support.
Many fans have credited him for his dedication to supporting his family in his career path. Others have praised the cultural impact of his honesty, sparking conversation about how expectation and responsibility impact perceived career options.
Above all, people have appreciated the humanity in revealing personal struggles.
Image and confidence are at the core of competitive gaming. EmiliaQAQ is seen as presenting transparency regarding the sacrifices esports professionals often have to make.
The journey forward – Stage Three of the Austin Major
As Stage Three begins, EmiliaQAQ and his teammates on Lynn Vision must continue their uphill battle toward Playoffs qualification.
Their first game will be against Team Liquid in Round One.
However, Stage Three welcomes Counter-Strike’s most dominant teams to the competition. IEM Dallas winners Team Vitality, Dallas Runners Up MOUZ, and CS2 golden child Danil ‘donk’ Kryshkovets’ Team Spirit are all set to make waves in Austin.
EmiliaQAQ is humble about Lynn Vision’s chances going forward, with such powerful teams to face.
Luck or sheer power of will aside, Lynn Vision continue battling through the Austin Major to the best of their ability.
Hannah is a writer specialising in the esports, gaming, and technology sectors. Working for outlets such as Dot Esports, Esports Insider, and of course ENUK, she has developed a love for wider esports and Apex Legends, although it may never surpass her drive to passionately beat her friends in every game of Mariokart. You may have seen her at various esports and gaming events, including ESI London, EGX, Discover: Esports and many League of Legends watch parties.
