'Sky' is the limit: The rise of China's esports pioneer

Li Xiaofeng – better known as "Sky" – was among the first generation of Chinese esports players to rise to international prominence. With back-to-back championships at the World Cyber Games (WCG) in 2005 and 2006, he became a symbol of China's emerging competitive strength during a time when esports was still struggling for recognition.

But back then, becoming a professional gamer was far from common. In an exclusive interview with CGTN, Sky recalled, "Just getting to play professionally – there was already something to be happy about." In an era lacking structure, recognition or stability, that simple hope to go pro reflected not only personal ambition, but also a collective sense of mission – to represent China on the global stage.

In this documentary, Sky shares his evolution from player to coach to executive and reflects on the industry's transformation – how unstable salaries, limited support and misunderstanding gave way to structure and legitimacy.

Li Xiaofeng's story is not only one of personal perseverance – it's a mirror of China's two-decade journey in building its esports legacy from the ground up.

Executive producer: Zhang Jingwen

Producer: Yang Sha

Video editor: Chen Qingxuan

Cover Design: Li Wenyi