When a lineup with the pedigree of FaZe makes it to a Major final, describing the run as a fairy tale might seem hyperbolic — yet that is precisely how their Budapest story has unfolded.
After teetering on the edge of elimination in Stage 1 against RED Canids, FaZe rallied through the event, surviving several tense moments and mounting comebacks when it mattered most. Their latest hurdle was Natus Vincere, whom they defeated 2-1 to secure a spot in the final of Counter-Strike's most prestigious tournament.
Speaking after that victory, David "frozen" Čerňanský admitted he could hardly believe how things have turned out. He highlighted the team's refusal to give in during difficult stretches and their constant effort to improve from game to game.
Frozen emphasized that, despite the weight of the occasion, he intends to focus on enjoying the experience. He explained that, while he understands how significant the final is, his aim is to savour the moment and put on a memorable performance rather than overthink the stakes.
Asked what was running through his mind immediately after qualification, frozen described a rush of emotions and relief. He said he was proud of how the team had developed throughout the tournament and praised the resilience they demonstrated in every contest.
When the topic turned to FaZe's unexpected redemption arc, frozen said starting in Stage 1 ultimately helped the squad. In his view, the current FaZe roster grows with each match, and going through more games allowed them to find their form as the event progressed.
On the question of whether past defeats in Major finals weigh on him — he has finished runner-up twice before with FaZe — frozen was clear that he was not dwelling on earlier outcomes. He reported a different mindset at this Major compared with previous editions and reiterated his plan to enjoy the final while still acknowledging how much a trophy would mean for him and his teammates.
The upcoming final pits FaZe against Vitality, a matchup that carries extra narrative weight because it will see them oppose their former teammate ropz. Frozen called the fixture a compelling storyline and predicted it should be an exciting, high-quality encounter.
When pressed about tactical preparations, frozen laughed and admitted he had not started to think seriously about Vitality yet — the series had just concluded and the final is a best-of-five, meaning there may be up to five maps to contest. He acknowledged that the affair promises to be interesting and intense.
Reflecting on his long-term consistency as an individual player, frozen dismissed frustration over occasional mismatches between personal form and team results. He said he does not dwell on such things and believes that with dedication and hard work, team trophies will arrive in time.
Throughout the interview, the recurring theme from frozen was measured optimism: recognition of how far FaZe have come during the event, a focus on growth and process rather than fixating on past near-misses, and a desire to enjoy and perform in the final while still aiming to lift the trophy for himself and his teammates.