Ramos: Gamer stereotype off the mark
At the age of just 24, Alfonso Ramos has already amassed an honours list that would be the envy of many of the game’s leading pros. An outrageously gifted performer on the virtual scene, the Spaniard has two FIFA Interactive World Cup crowns under his belt and is hoping to add a third come 8 May 2013 – the date of the third and decisive day of action at the Grand Final in Madrid.
“Going for a third crown on home soil will be very special, no doubt about it,” said a visibly proud Ramos, when speaking to FIFA.com, before swatting away any possible preconceptions about these extraordinary gamers. “People think that we’re all overweight ‘freaks’, who spend 24 hours a day locked away at home in front of the computer,” added a smiling Ramos, who manages to find the time to coach a local U-10s team, complete a teaching degree specialising in physical education and hang out with his friends.
“That stereotype which is applied to us gamers is totally different to what’s really the case,” he continued. “I know nearly everyone who’ll be competing in Madrid and I can tell you we’re totally normal people. I watch football, listen to music and I’ve completed my studies. The difference is that playing FIFA is one of my favourite pastimes, but it's nothing more than that.”
No more, but no less. Ever since he first decided to try his luck on the FIWC stage, Ramos, who shares just a few of his tricks of the trade with over 4,000 followers on Twitter (“but not all my secrets, as some of them could prove decisive in winning the final”), has enjoyed a host of memorable moments.