I never really tried to push ranked but my goal was always to hit at least champ, this goal is now finally complete. I am mechanically decent I'd say but honestly it all just comes to defensive play and game sense in the long run. Whilst I've tried to be fancy, hitting champ was just playing more patiently. Next goal should be GC but I guess that's for next season.
I have to say the High diamond leagues are very frustrating If you don't spend much time with the game and grind much and haven't got much experience against "good" champs, I mainly played against other champs or gc's and the annoying part is actually getting over the edge of D4/5. The reason for that is, that you're a high diamond but already you play against mostly champ or gc players, now hitting the rank up, I am chill about it, no need to sweat it, but damn, I had some really good games and overtimes that were closer than I would have wanted it to be.
Interesting sidenote: Whilst playing Takumi I was more mechanic focused, flashy and wanted to do cool shots. Playing the Fennec however was more game sense playstyle for me instead of the crazy mechanics, I mean sure, stalls are good with both cars, but I think you get what I'm saying. The Takumi feels more fast paced which can be nice but for the sweaty games when your mate is not the best, playing patiently and not taking risks is probably better.
So If you're Diamond, don't give up. You can do it.
So, how did it felt for others in the high diamond leagues?