As a dedicated esports enthusiast and passionate Valorant player, I can still vividly recall the electric anticipation that surrounded the 2021 VCT Masters Berlin. Looking back from 2026, that tournament wasn't just an event; it was a foundational moment that shaped the competitive landscape we enjoy today. It was the largest Valorant tournament of its time, a true global convergence of talent that kicked off a new era for the game. The excitement was palpable, blending seamlessly with the fresh content of Episode 3 Act 2, which had just launched. For ten incredible days, from September 10th to the 19th, the entire community's eyes were glued to Berlin.

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The journey began on Friday, September 10th, 2021, at 6 AM PDT. I remember setting my alarm, ready to witness history on Valorant's official Twitch channel. The atmosphere was amplified by legendary watch parties hosted by icons like Shroud and Dr. Disrespect, making it feel like a global festival. Riot Games had laid out a meticulous roadmap, and we were all eager to follow it.

The Group Stage Marathon: A Week of Unforgettable Clashes

The group stage was a relentless seven-day test of skill and strategy. The matchups were a fascinating mix of established powerhouses and hungry challengers. Let me walk you through that intense week:

  • Day 1 (Sep 10): The action exploded with KRU Esports facing ZETA Division, followed by Gambit Esports taking on Crazy Raccoon. The day closed with the intriguing match of F4Q versus G2 Esports.

  • Day 2 (Sep 11): Envy clashed with Vivo Keyd, Vision Strikers met Paper Rex, and 100 Thieves battled Havan Liberty. The stakes were already sky-high.

  • Day 3 (Sep 12): Sunday delivered the much-hyped match: Sentinels vs. G2. We also saw SuperMassive Blaze vs. Acend and the first winner's match from Group C.

  • Day 4 (Sep 13): The group narratives deepened with critical winner's matches. The showdown between F4Q and Sentinels was particularly tense.

  • Days 5-7 (Sep 14-16): These were the days of survival. Elimination matches dominated the schedule, with teams fighting desperately to stay alive. Matches like G2 vs. Sentinels and the final group deciders had us all on the edge of our seats.

The Knockout Drama: Where Legends Are Forged

After the grueling group stage, only the strongest remained. The intensity reached a new level.

  • Quarterfinals (Friday, September 17th): Starting again at 6 AM PDT, this single day separated the contenders from the true title challengers. Every round, every clutch moment mattered infinitely more.

  • Semifinals (Saturday, September 18th): The start time shifted to 8 AM PDT, building the grandeur. These two matches determined who would dance on the grandest stage. The strategies became more intricate, the pressure was immense, and the gameplay was simply breathtaking.

  • The Grand Finals (Sunday, September 19th): At 8 AM PDT, it all culminated. The entire season's journey boiled down to one best-of-five series. The energy was unlike anything I'd experienced before in Valorant esports.

Teams and the Heartbreak of Absence

The roster of teams was a testament to Valorant's global reach. From North America's Sentinels and 100 Thieves, Europe's Gambit and G2, to Korea's Vision Strikers, Brazil's Vivo Keyd, and Japan's Crazy Raccoon, it was a world championship in every sense. 😊

Yet, there was a shadow of disappointment. The Filipino squad, Bren Esports, heartbreakingly couldn't compete due to visa issues—a stark reminder of the real-world challenges esports athletes face. In a classy move, Riot Games confirmed they would still receive the 175 VCT points and prizes for qualifying, acknowledging their earned spot.

Legacy and Reflection from 2026

From my perspective in 2026, VCT Masters Berlin was more than its schedule and results. It was the catalyst. It proved Valorant could host a premier, world-class sporting event. The production, the stories, and the level of play set a new standard that all subsequent tournaments, including the modern Champions events, have built upon. The heartbreak of Bren Esports led to better logistical support for international players in later years. Watching those early matches now, I see the raw talent that would define the next half-decade of competition. It was the moment we all truly believed in the limitless future of the Valorant Champions Tour.