The Power of Native Language: jackasmo on fnatic’s Ukrainian-core synergy at Budapest Major

The Power of Native Language: jackasmo on fnatic’s Ukrainian-core synergy at Budapest Major

In a post-match interview following NRG defeat, 18-year-old Ukrainian rifler Nikita “jackasmo” Skyba admitted he had underestimated their resistance — but praised how switching to Ukrainian communication amid clutch moments helped fnatic find their rhythm and close out the series. 

“When we are as a three, we are speaking Ukrainian all the time,” jackasmo said, referring to fnatic’s Ukrainian core. He added that previously the team defaulted to English, but the shift to their native language in tense rounds is improving their cohesion. 

Rough start, strong finish

Skyba admitted the first map was rough — he felt “off.” But after adjustments and collective focus, fnatic turned it around. “Each person will step up, me mostly,” he said. 

Even though NRG played with a coach and fielded unfamiliar players, jackasmo admitted he expected a simpler series — a miscalculation, as NRG proved tougher than anticipated. 

Despite that, the Ukrainian rifler emphasized he does not feel overwhelmed by pressure. Past mistakes — such as wrong sensitivity settings — are now behind him, and he says he feels consistent now.

New team, new roles — growing in confidence

Joining fnatic this season, jackasmo had to adapt to “three or four completely different roles” he had never played before. He admitted the beginning was rough, but thanks to support from teammates and work on his game, he now says he feels much more confident. 

This positive development, combined with improved team communication, suggests fnatic may be starting to find synergy — a crucial factor given the elevated level of competition waiting in Stage 2 of the Major.

Why speaking Ukrainian matters

According to jackasmo, fnatic’s practice of switching to Ukrainian during clutch rounds with the Ukrainian-core is intentional and works to their advantage. “We are improving in this,” he said. Previously, the entire team communicated in English by default. 

Some rumors on social media claimed fnatic used special profile picture markers to indicate when the Ukrainian core could switch to Ukrainian. Jackasmo dismissed these claims, calling them fake — at least in terms of any ingame markings. 

Nevertheless, the language shift appears to reflect genuine trust and communication efficiency among Ukrainian teammates, possibly giving them a mental edge in high-pressure moments.

What’s next for fnatic

Now that fnatic have advanced to Stage 2 of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, jackasmo says the team will “grind this period before the second stage” and aims to deliver strong results. 

He expressed confidence that the team will “show their best,” though admitted he doesn’t want to jinx anything. 

Given his growing comfort with new roles and improving in-game communication, there’s reason to believe fnatic may continue to raise their level — especially when the Ukrainian core locks in.