1 . There are many ways we can enjoy sport—watching it on TV or a smartphone, attending an event at a stadium or even playing the game. Bu for those who enjoy getting competitive with their computer gaming, there are realistic-looking games to be played without leaving home. And people’s interest in this type of sport—if that’s what we can call it—has gone to a new level.
Initially, grabbing a controller and playing a game was individual activity. But around 20 years ago computers became cheaper and the Internet became faster, which made it much easier for more people to get involved with computer gaming. This led to gamers connecting with each other around the word, so they could go head-to-head online. It also became a spectator sport, with people watching others play. The whole experience has been given the name “esports”—Electronic Sports.
Now, huge esports tournaments take place all over the world in big arenas (竞技场) with large crowds. Diehard enthusiasts, who have become first-rate players, are now well-known—some play together in teams. Its top stars can earn millions of dollars a year, without even breaking into a sweat! And fans from around the world tune in to watch the action online. The global audience is now estimated at more than 200 million and growing. Annual profits from esports, currently around 650 million dollars for events, continue to rise with billions more through the video games sales.
Famous football clubs are now trying to get in on the action. England’s Football Association for example launched its first esports team this year, known as the eLions. It recruited (招募) FIFA 19 players to represent them at the FIFA eNations Cup. Mark Bullingham, the FA’s chief commercial and football development officer, said “The FA prides itself on being a modern, innovative organization that tries to engage and inspire all generations of football fans.”
But while this virtual version of football might give footballers a chance to get closer to the real game, some might argue the lack of physical activity means it shouldn’t be called a sport—and the biggest winners are the companies who promote and sell esports.
1. What contributed most to the popularity of esports?| A．The support from the public. | B．Cheaper computers and faster Internet. |
| C．The advanced sports equipment. | D．People’s preference for individual activities. |
| A．They have become a big industry. | B．They make players get rich easily. |
| C．They will replace traditional sports. | D．They have a great impact on other sports. |
| A．To explain why it has become interested in esports. |
| B．To tell readers it is taking the lead in hosting esports. |
| C．To state the officers are proud of its achievements in esports. |
| D．To show famous football clubs are getting involved in esports. |
| A．The Rise of Esports |
| B．The Advantages of Esports |
| C．Esports Teams: Famous for Star Players |
| D．Esports Tournaments: Exciting and Fantastic Events |
