‘This is the most important tournament of my life’ – cyber basketball champion Petrovic at Games of the Future

Not every country in Europe can offer such a cordial welcome as Russia, three-time European cyber basketball champion Stefan 'Scorpi' Petrovic has said in an interview with RT. Playing for the French Paris Phygital Team, Scorpi says the tournament in Kazan is the best in his life and explains why he himself is not going to take to the hardwood.

– Will you please share your first impressions of the Games of the Future?

– The moments we live here are incredible. It's a unique experience. This is the most important tournament in my life. I have never participated in competitions organized to such a high standard. I would also like to note the atmosphere within our team: together with the guys we have breakfast, lunch, we play and we spend free time together. In short, we are becoming a real family.

– Can you tell us a little bit more about what surprised you in Kazan?

– Even the naked eye can see how much money and other resources have been invested in this project. It is about both the finances and the work of a large number of people. Every single component is simply top-notch. I mean catering, accommodations, and even training: we always have the opportunity to train for the upcoming games. It's worth noting the regulations: other similar tournaments are often held literally within a day. You fly in, play all the possible stages, they put you on a bus and take you back to the airport. Here everything is different: the event is spread over several days, which is much more convenient. To reiterate, this is the most serious competition I have ever been involved in.

– You have been introduced as one of the strongest cybersports players in Europe. Does this status bring extra responsibility, and do you plan to appear on the court yourself?

– No such thoughts, that's for sure. I'll be honest, I didn't come here for that. My task is to make the most of the digital part of the competition. First of all, I am not ready to play in the physical domain, so I will try to show my best qualities on the console. Secondly, Paris Phygital has much more skillful basketball players. As for my regalia, I have won the continental championship three times and I understand why I am considered one of the best players in the Old World. Frankly, I agree.

– During the match with Ramboot Esports, you were personally and fiercely supported by the Serbian Partizan Esports basketball players. Is it because of your Balkan roots?

– You're right. I have those roots. Our coach, manager and the person who invited us here are also Serbs. That's where the support in the stands comes from. It's nice, of course.

– Many called your game with the Spanish team a hidden final. Do you agree with this formulation?

– I must admit that I don't care much about the strength of the opponents. Yes, our opponents looked good, but, no matter how clichéd it sounds, our task is to win every game. This is the only way to qualify for the trophy.

– At one point it seemed as if you were ready to break the regulations and rush into action right from the bench. Do you always react so keenly to what happens on the court?

– Emotions were really running high. Since I could not help with my skills at that moment, I let my energy go in the right direction - I tried to spur my comrades on, to get them going a little. I just wanted to support them.

– This is your first time in Russia. Can you share your impressions of the country?

– What struck me most of all was the warm welcome the locals gave us. I have not encountered such an attitude anywhere else. I am extremely pleased that they respect my roots here. Actually, my teammates and I are religious people. You may have seen it many times. Some of my teammates and myself were crossing ourselves during the matches. And that is why it was very nice to see so many churches in the city.