Choi Woo-je, famously known as ‘Zeus’ from Hanwha Life Esports, has officially declined the team’s proposal for a contract renewal ahead of the 2026 League of Legends World Championship (Worlds). Despite this rejection, Choi’s current contract remains effective until mid-November, opening the possibility for renegotiation before the free agent market commences.

Agent Change and Free Agency Aspirations

According to a report from Inven, Choi Woo-je’s decision to reject the renewal offer is linked to his recent change in representation. The player aims to assess his market value as a free agent.

Context of Contract Discussions

Hanwha Life Esports is not alone in navigating contract negotiations leading up to Worlds; many organizations engage with their players to discuss potential renewals during this period.

Team Performance and Future Implications

Recently, Hanwha Life faced elimination in the Worlds Swiss Stage on November 1st, suffering a defeat to the LPL’s BLG with a score of 0-2. This early exit has intensified the urgency for the organization to address the future of its key player as they strategize for the upcoming season.

Industry experts suggest that if Choi Woo-je enters the free agency market, he could become one of the most sought-after players during this off-season. Following his triumph at the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) and a narrow miss for the Worlds quarterfinals, Hanwha Life is under pressure to secure the future of a pivotal member of their roster.

Ongoing Discussions

A representative from Hanwha Life Esports shared, “We are continuously in discussions with the player,” indicating that negotiations may still be on the table despite Choi’s initial rejection.