After the match against NRG in this second day of
VALORANT Champions Paris,
Grzegorz"GRUBINHO" Ryczko provides an honest assessment of where the team stands at the Champions tournament. He explains how split-second delays on Haven were costly, why adapting to unfamiliar international styles is important, and how their confidence is still fuelled by a top-two finish in VCT EMEA Stage 2. Looking ahead, he stresses the need for sharper mid-round calls and mental resilience for a lower-bracket run where margins are razor-thin.
How do you feel after playing NRG in the quarterfinals?
Grzegorz"GRUBINHO" Ryczko: "They were a good, solid opponent, they even topped their group. I expected us to play better, but I think we simply had a bad day. It’s tough to lose like this, but we move to lower bracket tomorrow.
Let’s talk about Haven. What happened there, and what was GIANTX missing closing out the map, in your opinion?
GRUBINHO: It’s hard to say right after the match. We need to review it, and the coaches will give us pointers. If I had to say something now, maybe we were too slow in our decision-making. That’s about it.
What differences do you see between the European playstyle and what you’ve faced internationally here?
GRUBINHO: Teams from different regions play in completely different ways. Some are similar to each other, others aren’t. You just have to adapt. Once you get used to it, you can better anticipate what to expect from each region.
You joined GIANTX in May 2025 after competing with KOI. How has that transition been for you heading into Champions?
GRUBINHO: Overall, it’s not just about me, my teammates helped me a lot. The coaches and support staff did, too. It’s the team’s success; one player doesn’t change everything alone.
GIANTX made a big run in VCT EMEA Stage 2, finishing top two. How did that experience boost your confidence here?
GRUBINHO: We played against very strong teams in Europe, and when you beat them, you gain confidence, you feel you can compete with the best and that you can beat anyone. When you’re winning, you understand what you’re capable of.
How would you evaluate your personal level so far? Is there anything you wish you had done differently today, personally and as a team?
GRUBINHO: Everyone is smarter after the game, you can always imagine different choices. It’s hard to point to one specific thing I personally could have done better. Overall, I think we could have been faster in some decisions, cutting them off in certain ways.
Photo by Colin Young-Wolff/Riot Games
GIANTX has had strong collective moments. Which team play stands out most to you at this event? If you had to pick one play, an individual moment, a round, or a match, what would it be?
GRUBINHO: It’s hard to pick something. I haven’t had my best performances so far. Maybe a win against a strong team. Reaching the top eight is already big. Beating
XLG was a tough, close match; winning that felt great, being among the eight best teams in the world.
Do you think you can push to the final and lift the trophy? What does the team still need to reach that level?
GRUBINHO: I think we can, and I think every team can. There are no bad teams anymore; everyone can beat each other. There will be underdogs, but as you saw today, MIBR are winning. For us, the key is not to be mentally down after this loss. If we come in tomorrow and say, “Okay, it happened, we lost, but we move on,” that will help a lot. Let’s just do our best.
How does the Champions environment here compare to playing on stage in Berlin during the VCT EMEA season?
GRUBINHO: It’s different, different setup, different stage, and different opponents. You’re not facing the same players you even see in ranked. But you get used to it different stages, different teams. After winning games in Europe, you build confidence that you can face anyone.
If you look at your year from the start until now, what are you most proud of?
GRUBINHO: Qualifying from being last to making it here is huge. Finishing top two in Europe is huge as well. It’s good, and we’ll see what more we can do. We still have games ahead; we’ll see how it goes.
What is the best advice you would give to player who want to reach champions?
GRUBINHO: Grind the game but use your head. Don’t over-grind mindlessly. And if you’re on a team, take criticism wisely. Young players sometimes hear “you did badly” and take it as a personal attack. Most of the time, especially with older teammates, they’re pointing out mistakes to help you improve. Be smart about feedback and keep grinding with your head."
Header Credit Photo: Colin Young-Wolff/Riot Games
