Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) has established itself as one of the most popular Esports on the planet. This tactical first-person shooter, which was first released way back in 2012, is one of the most fascinating multiplayer Esports events from a spectating perspective.
The game, which requires a mixture of stealth, accuracy and aggression, has produced many legendary players through the years. This article is designed to pay homage to four of the greatest CS:GO icons that have set the benchmark for excellence in the world’s best CS:GO teams.
Oleksandr “s1mple” Kostyliev
Kostyliev is deemed one of the finest players to have graced the virtual maps of CS:GO. The Ukrainian has long been respected for his impeccable aim and versatility, not to mention his clutch performances where it counts.
S1mple was the backbone of the hugely successful Natus Vincere (Na’Vi) CS:GO Esports team. Kostyliev played a key role in Na’Vi’s success at the 2021 PGL Stockholm Major, eventually securing the title as the event’s MVP. He’s been inactive since October 2023, leaving fans speculating about his future. Despite his absence, Na’Vi remain a force in global CS:GO events. As of January, they are ranked as +350 second favorites to win IEM Katowice 2025 according to the Betano Esports betting markets.
Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut
French CS:GO sensation Herbaut shot to stardom in the world of Esports back in 2018 and rapidly cemented his place as one of the world’s finest CS:GO superstars. Turning out for Team Vitality, Herbaut’s overnight success is founded upon his supreme consistency and precision game in, game out. Herbaut is also one of the few players capable of dominating as an AWPer and a rifler, making him a genuine thorn in the side of opponents.
Herbaut was named the best CS:GO player on the planet by HLTV two years running in 2019 and 2020. He’s also played a starring role in multiple tournament victories for Team Vitality.
Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen
Rasmussen, or dupreeh, is a name synonymous with supreme teamwork and consistency, on a similar level to Herbaut. As a matter of fact, Rasmussen has racked up the most earnings from CS:GO events than any other player, with the Dane becoming one of only two players to break the $2 million mark.
Dupreeh was the beating heart of Astralis’ golden era, helping the team to four Major titles. Despite the waning of Astralis’ dominance in the CS:GO scene, dupreeh remains one of the most respected stars due to his versatility.
Nicolai “dev1ce” Reedtz
Reedtz is yet another Astralis CS:GO legend, who also made his mark firmly on the Esports scene. Dev1ce remains one of the finest AWPers in the history of CS:GO. Reedtz joined forces with Rasmussen to help Astralis to their quartet of Major titles, along with a host of other championships.
Dev1ce is famed for his laid-back demeanor. In fact, if he was any more laid-back he’d be horizontal! His Esports career hasn’t been without its challenges, but he returned impressively following a brief hiatus. At the time of writing, dev1ce has racked up 30+ MVP titles in professional CS:GO events.
The contributions of this quartet have helped to take the professionalism of CS:GO teams to even greater heights. They’ve demonstrated a level of consistency and artistry for the next recruits to follow.