Gabriël “Bwipo” Rau is a Belgian professional League of Legends player, renowned for his versatility and unique personality within the esports community. Bwipo is best known for his time as a top laner, but he has also shown his flexibility by playing as a jungler during his competitive career. He gained fame playing for Fnatic, one of the most storied organizations in League of Legends history, and his innovative playstyle, passion, and engaging demeanor have made him a fan favorite.
Early Career and Rise with Fnatic:
Bwipo made his LEC debut with Fnatic in 2018, stepping in as a substitute for their top laner sOAZ. His aggressive and confident playstyle quickly drew attention, and he became a key figure in Fnatic’s lineup. That year, Bwipo played a pivotal role in helping Fnatic reach the 2018 World Championship Finals, where they finished as runners-up to Invictus Gaming.
His time at Fnatic was characterized by his flexibility in champion selection and his willingness to take risks, often playing unconventional picks or adopting new strategies to give his team an edge. Bwipo became known for his signature champions, such as Gangplank, Urgot, and Swain, which allowed him to be a strong force in the top lane.
Role Swap to Jungle and Continued Success:
In 2021, Bwipo surprised many by transitioning to the jungle role, a significant shift that showcased his versatility. Despite being relatively new to the role, Bwipo adapted quickly and performed admirably as Fnatic’s jungler during the 2021 LEC Summer Split. His willingness to take on a new challenge further cemented his reputation as one of the most adaptable and talented players in the scene.
During his time with Fnatic, Bwipo contributed to multiple domestic successes, including several LEC finals appearances and strong international showings. His aggressive and playmaking-oriented style translated well into the jungle, where his map awareness and game sense allowed him to impact the game in new ways.
Playstyle and Personality:
Bwipo’s playstyle is marked by his fearlessness and creativity. Whether in the top lane or the jungle, he often pushes the boundaries of conventional play, looking for ways to surprise opponents or gain an early advantage. His mechanical skill, combined with his ability to think outside the box, has made him a highly impactful player in various metas.
Outside the game, Bwipo is known for his candid and insightful personality. He has been a vocal presence in the community, frequently sharing his thoughts on the game, team dynamics, and his personal experiences as a pro player. His openness and charisma have made him a beloved figure among fans.
Post-Fnatic Career:
After leaving Fnatic in 2022, Bwipo joined Team Liquid in North America’s LCS, where he returned to his original role as a top laner. His move to Team Liquid was seen as a major signing for the organization, as Bwipo brought his experience and leadership to the team.
Despite some ups and downs during his time in the LCS, Bwipo remained a formidable presence in the top lane, with his aggressive playstyle continuing to define his approach to the game.
Achievements:
2018 World Championship Runner-up with Fnatic
Multiple LEC Finals Appearances with Fnatic
Role-swapped successfully to jungle in 2021, showing his versatility
Top performer in both the LEC and LCS
Bwipo’s career has been marked by his willingness to embrace change and his constant drive to challenge himself. As a top laner, jungler, and team leader, he has left a lasting impact on the professional scene, with his innovative gameplay and engaging personality continuing to resonate with fans around the world.
Belgium
