This Swiss 14-year old is one of the best «Fortnite» players in the world

Most pro football players have peaked by the time they hit 30. In esports, this endpoint is already reached around 20. And «Fortnite» is quickly looking to lower this limit. The winner of this year's «Fortnite World Cup» in New York was only 16. He can definitely be happy about his 3-million-dollar award. A higher cash prize than Roger Federer received when winning Wimbledon back in 2017. Still, the American Kyle «Bugha» Giersdorf wasn't the only teen carrying home some serious cash. The average age at the tournament was 17. The youngest player was 13 while the most ancient of the bunch just reached 24.

Each of the 200 finalists invited to the World Cup got an advanced 50,000 dollars. Just for being there. 5 Swiss gamers were also along for the ride. The youngest among them is 14-year old Jérémy Deng, better known in the «Fortnite» circuit as «4zr». The prodigy from Vaude participated in the Duo category with his Belgian teammate Noward. They reached spot 13 out of 50. They even managed to achieve a Victory Royal in one round. Jérémy got the final kill.

How did playing at the «Fortnite» World Cup feel?
Jérémy Dang: I'm happy to be one of the best «Fortnite» players. It was an extraordinary opportunity for a young person like me and I'm happy to have participated.

Are you happy with your performance?
Not really. As a competitor, I'm disappointed. I find it hard to be satisfied when I'm not in first place. Nevertheless, it's still a huge success to reach the 13th spot at only 14.

What was going through your head when it was only you and one other player, moments away from a Victory Royal?
When there were only two left, I knew it would be impossible for me to lose that game. I had to win it. I was happy to show off what I'm really capable of.

What will you do with your winnings?
I'm planning on buying a new PC and monitor. That'll allow me to stream and play in better conditions.

Who went with you to New York to the tournament?
My dear brother joined me for the «Fortnite» world cup.

You're the youngest Swiss «Fortnite» pro. How did you get so good?
I've always liked gaming – on- or offline. Furthermore, I like the ranking system. It allows me to improve and compare myself to the best players. Obviously practice makes perfect. But I always had a talent for gaming, which of course is a big plus.

What do your parents think about you becoming a pro?
At first, they didn't think much of me playing «Fortnite». They didn't see a future in it. My parents wanted me to focus on school. Thankfully, they've now come around to see the potential of esports. They fully support me at what I do.

Do they support your coaching and goals?
Yes, they're 100% behind me and my journey through the world of esports.

How did your friends react to you participating in the tournament?
Most of them were very surprised that I'd be taking part in a tournament with such a big prize pool. Most of them didn't even know I played the game. I don't like mixing my career and my private life.

How do you become a professional?
The word «professional» has many meanings. For me, it has to do with results and one's self.

What has to be given up?
Naturally, esports has its casualties. In my case, I had to «ignore» some of my social life for very important events. Be that going out with friends or some family parties.

Do you think you'll be able to turn esports into a career?
The world of esports is constantly growing, so yeah, it's certainly possible to life from esports. But you shouldn't be too hasty and think that everything will work out perfectly. Only a tiny minority of people get the chance for a career like this.

How much time do you spend playing «Fortnite»? Describe a usual day of practice.
I don't have a strict daily training regimen. It really depends on whether I feel like playing that day. As the game is constantly changing, however, I always need to stay actively involved.

Is the game even fun anymore?
I get my motivation from always wanting to improve myself whenever I see other players developing. That makes me want to be better, which is my basic drive.

Why do you think «Fortnite» is so popular?
It's easier for young people to get into the game, as it isn't brutal. There's no real violence or blood, something that could traumatise people. There's a building mechanic that lets you be creative. The same applies to the island on which we play. There's a huge gap between reality and fiction.

How did you pick up the game?
I would occasionally play with my cousin and his friends. As the «Fortnite» hype slowly grew, they allowed me to try it as well. I was immediately amazed by the option to build and therefore protect myself.

The average age in other esports such as «CS:GO» or «PUBG» is much higher than in «Fortnite». Do you find it strange that an exhibit of the world's best players features mainly adolescents?
No, I think that's normal – it's good in fact. «Fortnite» gives young people a chance to show their talent and prove that age doesn't have to be a factor in skill level.

Many professionals such as the 28-year old Ninja didn't reach the world cup. Do you think it's due to their age?
No, I think everyone can reach our level. Even if younger people tend to have better reflexes.

What do you say to people who claim that esports aren't a real sport?
That's their opinion. If they think esports aren't a true sport, that's their opinion and I won't judge them for it.

What would you play if «Fortnite» didn't exist?
I'd play various game with my friends to have fun or to distract me. Maybe I wouldn't even play games. I'd certainly be more focused on school then.