Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) has quickly become one of the most competitive and lucrative esports titles since its release in 2023. With numerous CS2 eSports tournaments offering substantial prize pools, professional players have the opportunity to earn significant amounts of money. In this article, we will delve into the biggest cash winnings of professional players in the field, highlighting their achievements and the tournaments that contributed to their earnings.
Shortlisting the Highest Earners in CS2 History
Aleksi “Aleksib” Virolainen — $346,500.00 from 16 tournaments
Aleksi Virolainen is a Finnish professional who serves as in-game leader (IGL) and support rifler. Since he became a pro in 2015, Aleksib has turned out for multiple sides, from ENCE and OG to G2 Esports and Ninjas in Pyjamas. He moved to Natus Vincere in 2023, and has already delivered for the side, as their recent success at the PGL Major Copenhagen 2024 and the Esports World Cup 2024 can testify. This is no surprise, however, given that he led ENCE to a second-place finish at the IEM Katowice 2019 and guided OG to top finishes in major tournaments.
Helvijs “broky” Saukants — $329,100.00 from 19 tournaments
Broky is a Latvian professional Counter-Strike 2 players who began his professional career in 2019 with Epsilon Esports before moving to FaZe Clan later that year. Known as an exceptional AWPer, he quickly rose to prominence. He is the first and only Counter-Strike player from Latvia to have won a major tournament, a testament to his skill. Broky’s notable achievements include winning the PGL Major Antwerp 2022, where FaZe Clan defeated Natus Vincere. He also played a vital role in FaZe Clan’s victory at the IEM Katowice 2022.
Robin “ropz” Kool — $335,300.00 from 21 tournaments
A skilled rifler and lurker, Ropz went professional in 2017 with mousesports, where he quickly made a name for himself with his exceptional gameplay. In January 2022, he was recruited to the FaZe Clan, where he’s since gone on to win trophies and awards. For example, he has the Antwerp Major and the IEM Katowice in his cabinet. The Estonian’s reliable performances have earned him multiple MVP awards and recognition as one of the top pro gamers in the world.
Håvard “rain” Nygaard — $311,900 from 19 tournaments
From Norway, Rain rose to prominence for his skill as a rifler. He started competitive gaming in 2013 and has since established himself as a rare talent. Over the years, he has played for several top-tier teams, including NIP and G2 Esports, before joining FaZe Clan in 2016. That’s because they all love his consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. Like the first players on this list, he also had a crucial say in the FaZe Clan’s victories at the PGL Major Antwerp 2022 and the ESL Pro League Season 15.
Valeriy “B1t” Vakhovskiy — $306,500.00 from 13 tournaments
When it comes to sharp aim and strategic gameplay in CS2, few come close to B1t. The Ukrainian started in the junior squad of Natus Vincere (Na’Vi) and quickly rose through the ranks due to his impressive performances. His breakthrough came in 2021 when he was promoted to the team’s main roster. This decision has since been justified, with his ability to adapt and perform under duress proving instrumental in multiple Na’Vi’s victories. For instance, the Esports World Cup 2024. B1t is a dependable performer, and that’s arguably his biggest flex.
His largest single tournament win in CS2 was $500,000 at the PGL Major Copenhagen 2024 on March 31, 2024.
Finn “karrigan” Andersen — $303,900.00 from 14 tournaments
The Danish-German, Karrigan, is one of the most experienced in-game leaders (IGLs) in the history of the game. His eSports career began in 2006 and has seen him play for numerous top teams, including mousesports, Fnatic, Team SoloMid, Astralis, and FaZe Clan. His strategic prowess and ability to lead and coordinate teammates remain his strengths, and this is obvious in his victories. He led FaZe Clan to victory at the PGL Major Antwerp 2022, making history as the first IGL to guide an international lineup to a Major victory. He has also won several other major tournaments, including the IEM Katowice 2022 and ESL Pro League Season 15.
As CS2 continues to grow, we can expect even more competitive tournaments and impressive earnings. The future looks bright for both current and aspiring players, with increasing opportunities to showcase their talents on the global stage. The achievements of players like Karrigan, Broky, and Rain are already a reminder of the possibilities within the eSports world. Imagine how better it can get!
