Park Sang-hyun, known by his nickname 'Jjajae', claimed the championship title after defeating 'The Ultimate Weapon' Lee Young-ho 4-3.

On the 24th, at the special stage of '2026 PlayX4' held at KINTEX in Ilsan, Park secured his second consecutive ASL title. In the 'Google Play ASL Season 21' finals, he overcame Lee Young-ho—who had returned after a six-year hiatus—following a masterclass in psychological warfare between top-tier Zerg and Terran players.

Below is the full interview with Park Sang-hyun, the winner of Google Play ASL Season 21.

Q. How does it feel to win 4-3 against Lee Young-ho?

I had confidence in my skills, so I thought winning was possible. But actually beating Lee Young-ho felt surreal. I'm experiencing a feeling I've never felt before in my life. I'm happy that I didn't get intimidated and played my own game against him.

Q. You seem particularly overwhelmed because your opponent was Lee Young-ho?

It wasn't that I failed at a pro career; I chose to focus on my studies when I switched to StarCraft II at 17. Back when I was still trying to go pro, I always looked up to Lee Young-ho like a god. He was a player I never dared to think I could beat, so standing here next to him is deeply moving.

Q. How did you prepare for the matches?

I knew he would come out strong early on, but he exceeded my predictions. Still, I had it in mind, which helped me win some of the games.

Q. You attempted a bold 4-pool after three consecutive 'fast expands.' That must have been nerve-wracking, especially since your opponent went for a 8-rax?

I had actually prepared the 4-pool for Game 1, but I changed my build yesterday. It's a shame, but the situation in Game 1 was fine; my judgment just wasn't great. I never imagined he would go for another fast expand in Game 2, so I got caught off guard. The 4-pool on Polner was a prepared build. Technically, it's a build that loses to a 8-rax, but it worked out well and gave me the momentum.

Q. Your opponent didn't use any Starport play, like 1/1/1 or Valkyries?

Since it's Lee Young-ho, I knew he was capable of any build, so I couldn't assume he wouldn't use them. But as the games went on, I became convinced he wouldn't. I had practiced a lot against Starport play for my match against Shin Sang-moon, so perhaps Lee was conscious of that.

Q. In the final set, your Zergling and Drone rush was incredibly bold.

I saw his fast expand, so I built the Spawning Pool first and played that build based on instinct.

Q. You've achieved back-to-back championships. What is your next goal?

I went to the military at 30. Looking back at my 20s, I felt I could have worked harder but didn't. So, I've been pushing myself really hard because I don't want to have any regrets moving forward.

Q. Lee Young-ho's participation next season is uncertain. You must want to meet him in the finals again. Any words for him?

Personally, I truly respect him as a player. I want to express my sincere gratitude, and if we meet again, I'm not sure if I'll be able to win. I won today, but I don't think I've surpassed him. He is that great of a player, and if he ever returns to the ASL, I intend to give it my all against him.

Q. Any final words?

ASL players are getting older, but everyone is practicing and preparing with genuine sincerity. I hope people recognize the players' dedication, and I am truly grateful to the fans who cheered for me.