Technically, Katniss' backstory mentions two former winners: Johanna and some guy who got a score of three pre-game. Neither of these instances are supposedly a player that just sits back and bides their time while the big dogs duke it out, at least not from what we've seen. And you're right, Rue did it and was adorable. Katniss was always more badass and more of a hunter. Peeta just plain sucks at Hunger Games.
The point is that as far as the book goes, Foxface is unique and has somewhat of a fanbase because she's unique as a loner who isn't just a dominant player. She's mysterious, which makes people want to know more about her.
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Captain Tracy Mombaro and Agent Mirasuke Inhara: Two of the toughest, hottest furrs you'll ever meet.