NiKo after the first major: it was all for this moment

Team Falcons rifler Nikola "NiKo" Kovač spoke about his first major title in his career. The "Falcons" won the IEM Cologne Major 2026, defeating FURIA in the final with a score of 3:0.

For Kovač, this is his first championship title in 17 attempts. He shared his emotions in an interview with HLTV.

I have been saying for many years that I want to leave my name in the game, I want to create a legacy, and that was impossible without a major. It has been 11 years of competition, and I started playing 20 years ago – and all of this was for this moment. I hope this is just the beginning.

Nikola "NiKo" Kovačin an interview with HLTV

Also on stage right after the match, amidst chants of his nickname, Kovač addressed the fans.

It was definitely worth the wait. I am a living example that you should never give up. It will be hard, it will hurt, but you will achieve your goals.

Nikola "NiKo" Kovačat the awards ceremony

Let us remind you that Team Falcons won the IEM Cologne Major 2026.