Kai Budde: Magic’s Titan Passes, Leaving a Lasting Legacy
On Jan 29, 2026, the Magic: The Gathering community mourns Kai Budde, the German Juggernaut whose record includes five Pro Tour titles, two Team Pro Tours, seven Grand Prix wins, a 1999 World Championship, a 2002 Team World Championship, four Player of the Year awards, and induction into the Pro Tour Hall of Fame in 2007; he remained a mentor and innovator in the community, and the Player of the Year trophy was renamed in his honor.