'The Tyrant' Jaedong overcame ZvZ (Zerg vs. Zerg), which had recently been pointed out as his weakness, to advance to the quarterfinals in second place in his group.
On September 8, in Group B of the Round of 16 in Google Play ASL Season 22 held at FreecUP Studio in Daechi-dong, Seoul, Jaedong fell to the losers' match after losing his opening match against Kim Myung-woon. However, he defeated his former Hwaseung teammate Kim Kyung-mo 2-0 in the losers' match and swept Kim Myung-woon 2-0 in a rematch in the decider match, advancing to the quarterfinals in second place behind Shin Sang-moon.
Q. How do you feel about advancing to the quarterfinals in second place?
I'm glad to make it to the quarterfinals again following last season. I was disappointed with my elimination last season, so I want to prepare thoroughly this time and advance as far as possible.
Q. Wasn't it burdensome to play so many ZvZ matches?
I felt like ZvZ matches in tournaments particularly weren't going my way. I didn't think I was bad at them, so I felt that once I broke through that barrier, I could do well, and I had a feeling today would be that day. I played with confidence, and I'm satisfied that the results followed.
Q. Losing the first match must have made it difficult.
The first match was on a three-player map, so scouting luck and build order match-ups were even more crucial. It felt a bit like leaving things to fate, and the worst-case scenario I envisioned actually happened.
Q. Starting from the losers' match, you seemed focused on securing natural expansion resources.
The wait time between matches was quite long, so I was reflecting on how to play. I felt confident that if I took my natural expansion and played stably, I could turn the game around even if I fell slightly behind.
Q. Who did you want to face in the decider match?
I wanted to play against Shin Sang-moon. Even in set 3 of the winners' match, I thought the Zerg had basically won, but the Terran won instead. It wasn't the ideal scenario I envisioned, but I'm glad I won.
Q. How would you summarize the decider match?
I was at a bit of a disadvantage, but I felt it was a level where I could turn it around through unit control, so I stayed focused throughout. I was confident I could win.
Q. Are you disappointed that Zerg has the largest representation in the Round of 16?
Since there are many Zerg players and they play well, I'm expecting to keep playing ZvZ this season. Still, I feel quite confident in other matchups as well.
Q. Is there anything you felt disappointed about today?
They weren't perfect 100-point games, but I have no regrets.
Q. Any final words?
First of all, I want to reach the semifinals and secure a seed. Also, things are gradually improving, which is positive. I will work hard to be a player who keeps improving until the day comes when I can win a championship again. I'm truly grateful to the fans who cheered for me.
