For the first time in its history, the 10th edition of The International, Dota 2’s largest yearly tournament, has surpassed the $40 million prize pool mark. There is no confirmed date for The International 10, but Valve hopes to hold it in Stockholm, Sweden in August of 2021.
The milestone was crossed on Friday, Oct. 9, the final day where tournament contributions were accepted.
The community contributed over $38.4 million, adding to Valve’s annual $1.6 million base.
Valve has been putting up its $1.6 million since 2011, but since 2013, fans have been able to contribute to the pot through purchases of the Dota 2 battle pass, where 25% of the cost is sent directly to the TI prize pool.
This year’s International was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a total of 136 days where the community could contribute. Last year’s TI closed contributions at the 110 day mark.
This year’s International had already broken the record for largest prize pool by hitting $36.6 million, eclipsing last year’s $34.3 million, back in August.