The esports industry has exploded into a billion-dollar arena where players don’t just compete for glory but also massive financial rewards. From dazzling gameplay to life-changing victories, the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World have become icons who inspire millions. In this article, we count down the top 10 earners, starting from number 10 and moving to the ultimate champion.
10. KuroKy (Germany) – $5,295,698
Kuro Salehi Takhasomi, known as KuroKy, is one of the most legendary captains in Dota 2 history and proudly stands among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. Leading teams like Nigma Galaxy and previously Team Liquid, KuroKy’s leadership and understanding of the game made him a force to be reckoned with. His biggest achievement came at The International 2017, when he lifted the Aegis of Champions with Team Liquid, pocketing millions from the massive prize pool.
With total earnings of $5.29 million, KuroKy’s place among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World is well deserved. His career includes 618 tournament appearances and 113 achievements, proving his consistency and longevity in esports. KuroKy’s calm presence and tactical brilliance continue to inspire the next generation of players who dream of reaching similar heights.
9. Mira (Ukraine) – $5,638,899
Ukrainian player Myroslav “Mira” Kolpakov is another rising name among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. His journey reached its peak in 2021 when Team Spirit shocked the globe by winning The International 10, securing the largest prize pool in esports history. Mira’s flawless support gameplay and ability to make smart decisions in high-pressure moments made him crucial to that unforgettable victory.
Mira has earned over $5.63 million, and his performance places him firmly in the list of the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. With 446 matches and 62 major achievements, his growth has been remarkable. Now competing with Aurora Esports, Mira is building on the legacy of his TI10 triumph while continuing to add to his earnings and reputation.
8. Topson (Finland) – $5,898,810
Topias “Topson” Taavitsainen of Finland is a fan-favorite who belongs on any list of the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. Known for his unpredictable and creative playstyle, Topson’s big break came when he joined OG before The International 2018. Against all odds, OG not only won TI8 but also defended their crown at TI9, making Topson a two-time champion in just two years.
Topson’s career earnings of $5.89 million make him one of the most celebrated names among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. With 355 professional matches and 64 achievements, his ability to surprise opponents with unconventional hero builds became legendary. Even though he is currently a free agent, Topson’s story continues to inspire players who dare to break the mold.
7. Yatoro (Ukraine) – $5,932,736
At just 22 years old, Illya “Yatoro” Mulyarchuk has already carved out his place among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. His heroics during Team Spirit’s run at TI10 made him a global star. Known for his ability to play a vast pool of heroes and his iconic Rampages during the tournament, Yatoro proved that age is no barrier to greatness.
With career earnings of $5.93 million, Yatoro is already a giant among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. His record includes 485 matches and 67 achievements, and his meteoric rise continues to reshape competitive Dota 2. With years ahead of him, Yatoro is expected to climb even higher on the earnings list.
6. Collapse (Russia) – $5,940,111
Russian offlaner Magomed “Collapse” Khalilov is another star who sits among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. His dominance during TI10, particularly with heroes like Magnus, changed the way the offlane role is viewed in competitive Dota 2. Collapse became a household name almost overnight as his team, Spirit, went on an incredible run to win the title.
Earning $5.94 million, Collapse has cemented his status in the ranks of the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. With 538 matches and 75 achievements, his resume reflects consistency, talent, and the ability to shine under pressure. At just 23 years old, he is set to remain a top competitor and increase his earnings for years to come.
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5. Ceb (France) – $5,949,442
French legend Sébastien “Ceb” Debs is not only a player but also an inspirational figure among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. Starting as a coach for OG, he later stepped into the player role and helped lead the team to back-to-back TI victories in 2018 and 2019. His motivational leadership and clutch plays were crucial in OG’s historic journey.
Ceb’s total career earnings of $5.94 million make him a fixture among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. With 426 matches and 84 achievements, he has proven his versatility and resilience. Even after retiring, Ceb remains an influential voice in esports, showing that his legacy extends beyond prize money.
4. ana (Australia) – $6,024,411
Anathan “ana” Pham from Australia is a superstar carry player who stands tall among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. Known for his ability to remain calm in the toughest moments, ana delivered some of the most memorable performances in Dota 2 history, especially during OG’s TI victories in 2018 and 2019. His late-game decision-making and game-winning plays are legendary.
With earnings of $6.02 million, ana remains one of the youngest players to feature among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. Despite competing in only 106 matches with 23 achievements, his impact has been enormous. Though retired, ana’s name will forever be remembered as one of esports’ greatest clutch players.
3. Miposhka (Russia) – $6,227,771
Russian captain Yaroslav “Miposhka” Naidenov has earned his rightful place among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World by guiding Team Spirit to their TI10 victory. His leadership and composure turned a young, inexperienced roster into world champions. Miposhka’s calm strategies allowed his team to shine even against the strongest opponents.
With career earnings of $6.22 million, Miposhka’s inclusion in the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World list is no surprise. His long career includes 712 matches and 113 achievements, making him one of the most experienced players in the scene. From underdog to champion, Miposhka’s story is a true esports fairytale.
2. JerAx (Finland) – $6,486,623
Jesse “JerAx” Vainikka of Finland is one of the most skilled support players in Dota 2 and ranks among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. Famous for his incredible plays with Earth Spirit and Rubick, JerAx was instrumental in OG’s TI8 and TI9 triumphs. His unmatched playmaking ability turned games around when all seemed lost.
With total earnings of $6.48 million, JerAx has firmly established himself in the pantheon of the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. His career includes 262 matches and 54 achievements, each filled with unforgettable highlights. Though retired, JerAx’s legacy continues to inspire support players globally.
1. N0tail (Denmark) – $7,184,163
At the very top of the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World list sits Johan “N0tail” Sundstein. The Danish superstar and OG captain is widely respected for his leadership and resilience. N0tail’s journey from his early days in Heroes of Newerth to leading OG to back-to-back victories at TI8 and TI9 is nothing short of legendary.
With career earnings of $7.18 million, N0tail is undisputedly the king among the Highest Paid Esports Players in the World. Across 351 matches and 71 achievements, he has showcased his leadership, teamwork, and ability to perform under immense pressure. Beyond the money, N0tail is admired for proving that esports can produce true legends, much like traditional sports.
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