MLBB Women’s Invitational at EWC 2025 Expands to 16 Teams

On May 15, 2025, MOONTON Games has announced the slot allocation for a record-breaking 16 teams at the upcoming Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Women’s Invitational (MWI) during the 2025 Esports World Cup. Set to run from 15 to 19 July, this edition marks the tournament’s largest field yet, underscoring the company’s drive to boost inclusivity and spotlight women in esports.

Shining the Spotlight on Women’s Esports

This year’s MWI at EWC 25 boasts a USD 500,000 prize pool, ranking among the biggest in the history of women’s competitive gaming. The field has expanded from 12 to 16 teams, while qualifying regions climb from 46 to 57, widening global participation. For the first time, squads from Africa, Mongolia, and Türkiye will compete—highlighting the tournament’s growing reach and MOONTON’s commitment to a more diverse esports landscape.

Breaking New Ground in Women’s Esports

The MLBB Women’s Invitational in 2024 was the only women’s bracket at the first Esports World Cup. It welcomed teams beyond Southeast Asia and drew over 2.5 million Hours Watched, according to Esports Charts. That edition crowned Smart Omega Empress champions after they toppled Team Vitality—ending a 24-match winning streak dating back to 2021. Their victory underscored MWI’s role as a premier stage for women athletes to challenge norms and excel.

“At MOONTON Games, we believe that everyone has a place in esports. MWI at EWC 25 is our way of making sure women are seen, heard, and celebrated. The tournament serves as a platform for women to shine at the highest level and opens the door to esports as a viable career path. As we expand the tournament’s reach, we’re amplifying the voices of women worldwide. This is how we empower women esports athletes—by advancing the women’s ecosystem and breaking down barriers.”

Ray Ng, Head of Esports Ecosystem, MOONTON Games

Building the Foundations for Inclusivity

In 2024, MOONTON Games backed several high-profile women’s competitions, including MLBB Women’s Invitational 2024, the Asian Esports Games 2024, and the IESF World Esports Championship 2024. These events spotlighted female talent and provided pathways to global recognition. The momentum continues in 2025—not only with MWI at EWC 25 but also at the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian Games.

“We’ve always aimed to make our tournaments reflect the diversity of the MLBB community. Like how the MLBB Mid Season Cup at EWC 25 will now include more regions, we’re doing the same for MWI at EWC 2025 because women’s and men’s esports should stand on equal ground. MOONTON Games is committed to building an ecosystem where every esports athlete can thrive and represent their region with pride.”

Ray Ng, Head of Esports Ecosystem, MOONTON Games

For more information and updates, you can follow MLBB Esports via the following social media channels.

About Mobile Legends: Bang Bang

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is a top mobile MOBA with over 1.5 billion installations and 110 million monthly active users. Available in 139 countries, it ranks among the world’s most played games.

About MLBB Esports

Founded in 2017, MLBB Esports provides a global stage for aspiring professionals. Its leagues—including the MPL series—have collectively surpassed 1 billion hours of watch time.

About MOONTON Games

Since 2014, MOONTON Games has focused on game development, publishing, and esports. With over 1,600 employees across Asia and Latin America, it partners with governments and organizations in more than 30 countries. Its flagship title, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, leads the mobile MOBA genre globally.

For more information on MOONTON, visit their official website.