Best CS2 Players of 2025 – TOP 20

Witnessing the elite skills and dedication of professional players is a huge part of what makes Counter-Strike 2 so exciting. In this post, we’ve ranked the top 20 CS2 players in 2025 based on recent performance, consistency, team achievements, and overall impact.

Key Takeaways

• Players like Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut continue to dominate the global scene
• Rankings are based on individual skill, team success, consistency, and adaptability.

Top 20 CS2 Players of 2025

Here are the best 20 players in CS2 in 2025:

1. Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut

• 2025 Rating: 1.42
• Major Wins: 2 Majors, HLTV #1
• Key Stat: 1.71 rating in RMR Copenhagen
• ZywOo remains a legend in Counter-Strike. He led Team Vitality through multiple tournament wins and consistently outperformed opponents in clutch rounds. Whether it’s AWPing or rifling, he adapts flawlessly. In 2025, he’s not just consistent, he’s dominating.

ZywOo is widely regarded as one of the best players in Counter-Strike history and has had an exceptional year in 2024 with Team Vitality. As of early 2024, he dominated the European Regional Major Rankings (or RMRs) for the PGL Major Copenhagen, achieving a stellar 1.71 rating over seven maps, leading all competitors.

This performance secured Vitality’s place in the prestigious tournament and reinforced ZywOo’s reputation as a standout player in CS2. He continues to excel as a clutch performer and versatile competitor, elevating his team to top-tier success.

2. Ilya “m0NESY” Osipov

• 2025 Rating: 1.38
• Achievements: ESL Pro League S21 MVP
• M0NESY had a breakout year, shining in international events like IEM Dallas and BLAST Fall Final. His aggressive AWPing and smart positioning helped G2 secure multiple trophies. In high-pressure moments, he rarely misses.

M0NESY has had an exceptional 2024 as a professional Counter-Strike 2 player. Competing for G2 Esports, he earned two MVP titles, one at IEM Dallas and another at the BLAST Premier: Fall Final, where his impressive rating of 1.33 across 14 maps and standout performances against top teams solidified his dominance.

M0NESY was instrumental in leading G2 to multiple victories, including a thrilling Grand Final win against Natus Vincere in Copenhagen. Despite occasional challenges, such as a dip in performance against Vitality, his consistency and high-level gameplay place him among the top CS2 players globally in 2025.

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3. Danil “donk” Kryshkovets

• 2025 Rating: 1.40
• Highlights: IEM Cologne 2025 MVP
• Donk exploded onto the scene in 2024 and carried the momentum into 2025. Known for a record-setting 2.38 rating in finals, he helped Spirit win massive events like IEM Katowice and the Shanghai Major. At just 17, he’s already a household name in CS2 esports.

Donk emerged as one of the most outstanding CS2 players in 2024, playing for Team Spirit. Known for his consistency and incredible skills, Donk delivered historic performances at several major tournaments.

Notably, he was the MVP of IEM Katowice 2024, setting a record with a 1.70 rating across 12 maps, including a dominant 2.38 rating in the finals against FaZe Clan. His performance helped Team Spirit secure the championship and $400,000 in prize money. Donk was also the MVP of the Shanghai Major in December.

Throughout 2024, donk maintained a top-tier average rating of 1.49 on LAN, outperforming other stars like m0NESY and ZywOo. His contributions at events such as the PGL Major Copenhagen and the Shanghai Major solidified his reputation as one of the year’s best players.

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4. Dmitriy “sh1ro” Sokolov

• 2025 Rating: 1.25
• Highlight: BLAST Premier MVP
• Sh1ro has returned to form as a top-tier AWPer. Despite early exits at a few events, his calculated plays and high K/D ratios remind everyone why he’s one of CS2’s most reliable players.

Sh1ro had an excellent performance in 2024 and is once again a top player in CS2. As an AWPer for Team Spirit, sh1ro was praised for his precision and consistency but struggled in high-pressure moments at key tournaments.

Notably, his team was eliminated early at the BLAST Premier World Final 2024, where he admitted to underperforming. However, in earlier events like IEM Katowice, his clutch factor and strong individual plays remained highlights of Team Spirit’s matches.

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5. İsmailcan “XANTARES” Dörtkardeş

• 2025 Rating: 1.16
• Team Impact: CCT Global Finals Champion
• XANTARES returned stronger than ever with Eternal Fire. His rifling and fast aim helped the team secure top placements, including second at BetBoom Dacha.

XANTARES is a prominent Turkish CS2 player, renowned for his exceptional rifling skills and aggressive playstyle. As a key member of Eternal Fire, XANTARES has experienced a career resurgence in 2024, contributing significantly to the team’s victories.

Notably, Eternal Fire secured the CCT Season 1 Global Finals and claimed second place at the BetBoom Dacha Belgrade 2024 #2.

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6. Nikola “NiKo” Kovač

• 2025 Rating: 1.20
• Notable: Grand Final appearance at Major
• NiKo is still among the best riflers in the world. G2 had a deep run at PGL Copenhagen, and NiKo’s aim and leadership remained crucial.

NiKo is one of the premier Counter-Strike players of all time, known for his sharp aim and consistency in high-stakes environments. In 2025, he continues to demonstrate elite performance in CS2, securing top finishes in several major tournaments like the PGL Major Copenhagen, where G2 reached the top 4.

Despite the lack of a Major title, NiKo’s impressive stats and leadership have kept him at the forefront of CS2’s esports scene. His performance remains highly valued for his precision, adaptability across maps, and the ability to clutch in crucial moments.

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7. Jonathan “EliGE” Jablonowski

• 2025 Rating: 1.14
• Experience: NA legend and IEM participant
• EliGE continues to be North America’s most consistent player. His smart peeks and team play helped Complexity stay competitive through 2024 and 2025.

EliGE has been a prominent figure in competitive Counter-Strike for many years. Known for his exceptional skill and consistent performance, he has become a key player in the North American scene.

As of 2024, EliGE continues to compete at the highest level, participating in major tournaments like BLAST Premier and IEM Cologne. His precise aiming, adaptability, and leadership have made him a standout player, contributing to his team’s success across various competitions.

8. Dorian “xertioN” Berman

• 2025 Rating: 1.12
• Success: Helped win ESL Pro League S18
• XertioN is one of MOUZ’s most valuable assets. His clutch factor, utility usage, and support play are often underrated.

XertioN has emerged as a strong player in the CS2 competitive scene, particularly in 2024. Playing for MOUZ, he has shown consistent improvement in his performances, excelling in trading and utility usage. His skill in both opening frags and clutch situations has contributed to the team’s overall success.

Notably, xertioN helped lead MOUZ to victories in multiple high-profile tournaments, including ESL Pro League Season 18 and the Thunderpick World Championship Europe Series. His impressive K/D ratios, coupled with a solid support role, make him a standout in the CS2 circuit.

9. Valeriy “b1t” Vakhovskiy

• 2025 Rating: 1.18
• Award: HLTV’s Best Rifler
• Known for clean aim and positioning, b1t was a key factor in NAVI’s strong year, including a dominant showing at the Esports World Cup.

Known for his consistent gameplay as a rifler with Natus Vincere, b1t has become a key contributor to his team’s success. In 2024, his performances were pivotal in Na’Vi’s victories, earning him the prestigious MVP title at the Esports World Cup, marking his first career MVP award​.

10. Mario “malbsMd” Samayoa

• 2025 Rating: 1.11
• Breakout Moment: BLAST Premier Grand Final
• MalbsMd became the first Guatemalan pro to gain global recognition. His entry fragging and consistency led G2 to a title win at BLAST.

MalbsMd is a rising star in Counter-Strike 2. He made significant waves in 2024 with his performance on G2 Esports.

As the first Guatemalan player to achieve such prominence, malbsMd contributed to G2’s victory at the BLAST Premier Grand Finals. He delivered a strong showing with a 67-54 statline across the four-game series, helping his team secure critical wins in tightly contested matches.

His consistency and clutch plays solidified his reputation as one of the top riflers in the scene. His contributions have sparked discussions about his growing legacy and potential for future championships.

11. Justinas “jL” Lekavičius

• 2025 Rating: 1.12
• Achievement: MVP at Copenhagen Major
• jL had a stellar year with NAVI, leading the scoreboard during the Major and contributing strong performances in multiple tournaments.

JL had a strong year in 2024, excelling as part of Natus Vincere. His most notable achievement was contributing to NAVI’s victory at the PGL Major Copenhagen 2024, where he was named MVP. JL’s consistency and performance throughout the year solidified his reputation, with improved ratings in key events such as the Esports World Cup and the Blast Premier Fall Groups.

12. Lotan “Spinx” Giladi

• 2025 Rating: 1.15
• Strength: 85% clutch win rate
• Spinx stepped up as a star rifler. Whether holding bombsites or lurking, his timing is deadly. A key part of Vitality’s success.

In 2024, Spinx cemented himself as one of the premier riflers in CS2. He showcased consistency and versatility, helping Vitality win IEM Cologne 2024 and delivering standout performances at events like the BLAST World Final and Shanghai Major.

Spinx’s rifling prowess was evident in his high accuracy and clutch plays, achieving an impressive 94.7% success rate in some matches. While Vitality experienced setbacks, such as a quarter-final loss at ESL Pro League Season 20, Spinx remained a key player, maintaining elite stats and contributing to their championship goals.

13. David “frozen” Čerňanský

• 2025 Rating: 1.11
• Role: Consistent lurker
• Frozen continues to hold the line for FaZe. His quiet but effective plays give his team the edge in late rounds.

In 2024, frozen continued to showcase his strong performance in Counter-Strike 2 as a reliable and consistent player for FaZe Clan. Known for his precise aim and calculated gameplay, he excelled in critical roles, often taking on the position of lurker.

Despite his team’s ups and downs in major tournaments, frozen maintained a solid individual performance, contributing key rounds and impactful clutches.

14. Ihor “w0nderful” Zhdanov

• 2025 Rating: 1.16
• Notable: Top 3 AWPers globally
• W0nderful played a massive role in NAVI’s wins, especially at the Esports World Cup. His AWPing was sharp and game-defining.

In 2024, w0nderful showcased exceptional consistency and impact as a key player for Natus Vincere. He was instrumental in NAVI’s success, including their victory at the Esports World Cup.

15. Kaike “KSCERATO” Cerato

• 2025 Rating: 1.14
• Moment: 3-0 Major qualification run
• KSCERATO was the driving force behind FURIA’s perfect record at the Shanghai Major. His rifling was unmatched in tight games.

In 2024, KSCERATO delivered standout performances as FURIA’s star player in CS2. His sharp consistency and clutch plays were pivotal in securing the team’s flawless 3-0 qualification for the first CS2 Major. Notably, he excelled during the Perfect World Shanghai Major, achieving remarkable kill counts in elimination matches.

Despite past setbacks, KSCERATO has regained form, crediting team cohesion and leadership under FalleN. His tactical precision and impact in high-stakes moments have solidified his reputation as one of the top CS2 players this year.

16. Shahar “flameZ” Shushan

• 2025 Rating: 1.10
• Match Highlight: 18/6 K/D vs FaZe on Anubis
• FlameZ thrives under pressure. He shone at the Copenhagen Major, helping Vitality reach the top 4.

In 2024, flameZ showcased exceptional performance in CS2 as a key rifler for Team Vitality. He consistently delivered standout moments in tournaments such as the PGL CS2 Major Copenhagen, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s quarterfinal success, achieving an impressive 18/6 K/D on Anubis.

17. Jimi “Jimpphat” Salo

• 2025 Rating: 1.22
• Milestone: Youngest Major winner (18 years old)
• Jimpphat leads MOUZ’s new generation. Despite his age, he already delivers top-tier performances in support and fragging roles.

In 2024, Jimi “Jimpphat” Salo emerged as one of the standout players in CS2. Competing for MOUZ, the 17-year-old Finnish player demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill, often delivering performances well above expectations for his support-oriented role.

At the PGL CS2 Major Copenhagen, he led all players in the Elimination Stage with a 1.50 rating, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

18. Guy “NertZ” Iluz

• 2025 Rating: 1.09
• Performance: Standout showings at Katowice and Copenhagen
• NertZ is known for high-impact plays, especially in matches against top-tier teams like Vitality and NAVI.

In 2024, NertZ (Guy Iluz) demonstrated remarkable performances in CS2 tournaments, particularly with Heroic. He played key roles in events like the PGL Major Copenhagen and IEM Katowice, showcasing his consistency and adaptability.

Notable matches included a 26/13 K/D against Vitality at IEM Katowice and a 25/20 performance on Vertigo at the Copenhagen Major, emphasizing his impact in high-pressure games.

19. Azbayar “Senzu” Munkbold

• 2025 Rating: 1.09
• Redemption: From betting scandal to top-tier play
• Senzu bounced back with style in 2024–25. He helped The MongolZ reach the playoffs at major events and beat giants like MOUZ and G2.

In 2024, Azbayar “Senzu” Munkbold delivered an impressive performance as a key player for The MongolZ in the CS2 competitive scene.

Despite a rocky start to his career due to a skin-betting scandal in 2023, Senzu rebounded and contributed significantly to his team’s success. He played pivotal roles in victories at events such as the Thunderpick World Championship and the YaLLa Compass 2024, amassing over $210,000 in prize winnings.

At the Perfect World Shanghai Major, Senzu helped The MongolZ achieve a flawless 3-0 group stage, defeating top teams like G2 Esports and MOUZ, and advancing to the playoffs.

20. Russel “Twistzz” Van Dulken

• 2025 Rating: 1.09
• Contribution: Return to Team Liquid, high-impact frags
• Twistzz is still one of NA’s finest. His experience, versatility, and clutch rounds played a big role in Liquid’s comeback season.

In 2024, Twistzz, a standout in the Counter-Strike scene, reaffirmed his status as one of the best North American players. Transitioning into CS2, he showcased consistent performances, excelling in crucial tournaments.

After a notable return to Team Liquid late in 2023, Twistzz contributed significantly to the team’s resurgence, blending individual skill with sharp teamwork. His strong rifling and clutch moments earned him recognition, including standout highlights in high-stakes matches.

Factors That Determine the Best Players

Several crucial factors come into play when de­termining the top players in CS2. Skill is undoubtedly one of them, as it signifies an individual’s ability to outperform oppone­nts during competitive matches and e­xcel at critical moments. 

To be ranked among the best in CS2, a player must show:

Moreover, team success, consistency, and adaptability can also distinguish standout players from the rest of the crowd.

By significantly contributing to their teams’ victories over time and quickly adapting to evolving conditions, players increase their chances of being recognized among the best in CS2.

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