Earlier today, SonicFox took home the Mortal Kombat 1 title at Evo 2024. However, while their peers are sponsored and travel around the globe with the help of major gaming organizations, they remain free agents. One key reason? The Esports World Cup.
During a press conference following the victory, we spoke with iGamesNews and asked SonicFox to share their thoughts on the Saudi government-sponsored Esports World Cup’s growing influence in the FGC. In response, they shared the following:
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“As far as the Esports World Cup is concerned, I’ve been very outspoken about it. Unfortunately, people like me and other transgender people, a lot of people like us can’t compete at all. I don’t think it’s a good idea to work with them[the Saudi government]. While I think the money is great – for some people, it’s life-changing money – I don’t think it’s a good idea to have such overwhelming government support for the FGC because what it often does is discriminate against people.”
“Unfortunately, sponsors started asking me for entry fees to the Esports World Cup. I don’t think I’ve ever felt more humiliated than now, having to say to those sponsors ‘I can’t participate because I’m gay’.”
While players, commentators, and regular community members agree with SonicFox’s take on the matter, the fact is that government interest and funding in the FGC and esports as a whole is increasing. While Evo 2024 is not directly related to the Esports World Cup, one of its official partners is Qiddiya Gaming. Funded by the Saudi government’s Public Investment Fund, Qiddiya Gaming not only has a booth at this year’s show, but will also sponsor the 2025 Evo Awards.
Over the years, Saudi Arabia’s government has come under fire for its treatment of LGBT+ people, as well as women and migrants at its borders.
As SonicFox himself said on Twitter earlier this year, hosting the event in Saudi Arabia is worrisome for those concerned about safety and ethical issues. It also begs the question: If one of the best players in the world can’t get a sponsorship because of his gender or gender identity, will professional teams be interested in being the best in the world? Or is salary more important?
