Esports World Cup ends with surprise win for China-based team

Though many players, commentators and fans have boycotted the EWC due to Saudi Arabia's involvement, the event remains popular. Organisers say the tournament attracts 2,000 players from 100 countries, including some of the world's top esports stars. They reported that this year's EWC reached 850 million viewers worldwide, with 175,000 tickets sold. Teams have previously told BBC Newsbeat they "can't spend to ignore" the contention and a imaginable stock of its $75m (£50m) prize pot, as backing for esports is connected the decline. The event is run by the Esports Foundation, which describes itself as a non‑profit organisation. It was created with the backing of the Saudi government, and the EWC was launched following an announcement by Mohammed bin Salman. Investment in esports forms part of the kingdom's drive to become a major player in global gaming—a strategy labelled "pixelwashing" by gamedeveloper.com. Saudi Arabia also recently acquired video‑game giant Electronic Arts in a record‑breaking buyout. Critics contend the move is an attempt to improve the country's international image and distract from concerns over its human‑rights record and anti‑LGBT laws. Saudi Arabia has faced similar accusations of "sportswashing" due to its investments in football, motorsport and other sports, which it has repeatedly denied.