Like a top-notch coach predicting game-winning plays, operators who track high-impact teams and star players can gain a decisive edge. With esports betting projected to surpass hundreds of millions in wagers by 2025, knowing which star names move the markets increases turnover and gives operators a competitive edge in player acquisition and retention. Moreover, those who identify the hottest betting action can adjust their platforms strategically, ensuring they capitalise on opportunities before anyone else.
Let’s dive into the most wagered-on names shaping esports betting in 2025.
Leading Esports Titles Dominating the Betting Scene
When it comes to top esports titles, a handful stand out as the biggest draws for bettors. Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), Dota 2, and League of Legends lead the pack, generating immense betting volumes thanks to their intense competition and dedicated global audiences. Tournaments like The CS2 Majors, The International (Dota 2), and the League of Legends World Championship produce a spike in wagering activity, with odds shifting rapidly as the action unfolds.
Beyond these heavyweights, Valorant Champions Tour, Fortnite, Call of Duty League, and Overwatch League continue to build momentum, attracting a growing community of bettors eager for fresh markets and in-play betting opportunities. But it’s not just about the games; it’s the legendary players and elite teams that fuel the excitement.
Top 10 Most Wagered Esports Players
Here’s our curated list of the top 10 most wagered-on esports players in 2025.
By analysing market movements and the betting handle across major esports titles, we've projected these rankings to focus on each player's influence, performance, and the average stakes they attract in high-profile events.
1. Mathieu "ZywOo" Herbaut
Specialisation: Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO)
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Approx. $1.5 million to $1.8 million per event
Win/Loss Ratio: Maintains a win rate of around 60% in major tournaments
Betting Trends: Bettors are drawn to ZywOo's consistent top-tier performances and high frag counts
Mathieu "ZywOo" Herbaut, the French CS: GO prodigy, has dominated the global stage with Team Vitality, earning multiple MVP titles. His pinpoint accuracy and game-changing clutches make him a prime choice for kill total and headshot-related bets. When ZywOo is in form, betting markets move fast.
2. Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok
Specialisation: League of Legends
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $1.3 million to $1.6 million per event
Win/Loss Ratio: Consistently maintains a win rate of around 65% in top-tier tournaments
Betting Trends: Bettors favour Faker for match-winner bets, MVP selections, and first-blood kills.
Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok, the undisputed icon of League of Legends, has led T1 to multiple world championships, cementing his status as esports royalty. His unparalleled mechanics and game sense make him a bettor’s favourite for MVP markets, first-blood wagers, and outright wins. When Faker plays, betting volumes tend to soar.
3. Johan "N0tail" Sundstein
Specialisation: Dota 2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Approx. $1.2 million to $1.4 million.
Win/Loss Ratio: Exceeding 60% in major tournaments.
Betting Trends: High bettor confidence due to consistent performance and leadership in OG.
Johan "N0tail" Sundstein isn’t just a Dota 2 champion — he’s a legend in the game. Hailing from Denmark, he built OG into one of the most dominant teams in esports history, leading them to back-to-back ‘The International’ tournament victories. His sharp tactical mind and natural leadership make him a favourite among bettors, especially for outright match wins and MVP wagers. With over $7.1 million in career earnings, his name carries weight in every tournament, and when he plays, the betting action follows.
4. Jesse "JerAx" Vainikka
Specialisation: Dota 2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $900,000 and $1.1 million per event.
Win/Loss Ratio: Approx. 58% during his active years.
Betting Trends: Bettors favour JerAx for his strategic support plays and clutch performances.
Jesse "JerAx" Vainikka is the Finnish mastermind of Dota 2’s support role. Beyond his back-to-back The International victories with OG, JerAx was instrumental in Team Liquid's runner-up finish at the Shanghai Major 2016. His game sense and near-flawless execution make him a magnet for bettors, particularly on first-blood wagers and team fight engagements. With career earnings surpassing $6.4 million, his strategic play keeps the odds shifting and the betting markets buzzing whenever he steps onto the stage.
5. Anathan "ana" Pham
Specialisation: Dota 2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $850,000 and $1 million per event.
Win/Loss Ratio: Around 62% in international competitions.
Betting Trends: High stakes are placed on ana due to his reputation for game-changing plays.
Anathan "ana" Pham, the Australian Dota 2 sensation, built a reputation for clutch performances and fearless late-game decision-making. After stints with Invictus Gaming, he found legendary status with OG, dominating top-tier tournaments. His unpredictable playstyle makes him a bettor’s favourite, particularly for game-winning kills and come-from-behind victories. With career earnings exceeding $6 million, ana’s presence on the battlefield keeps wagers high and odds shifting.
6. Sébastien "Ceb" Debs
Specialisation: Dota 2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Around $800,000 to $950,000 per event.
Win/Loss Ratio: About 59% in significant events.
Betting Trends: Bettors appreciate Ceb's leadership and resilience under pressure.
Sébastien "Ceb" Debs, the French Dota 2 strategist, transitioned from coaching OG to becoming one of its most decorated players. His fearless offlane plays and clutch decision-making make him a top pick for bettors, especially on high-impact initiations and comeback scenarios. With career earnings exceeding $5.9 million, his presence alone can shift match odds and betting markets.
7. Topias "Topson" Taavitsainen
Specialisation: Dota 2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Approx. $750,000 to $900,000 per event.
Win/Loss Ratio: Win rate near 61% in top-tier tournaments.
Betting Trends: Known for unpredictable strategies, attracting bettors looking for high-reward opportunities.
Topias "Topson" Taavitsainen, the Finnish Dota 2 prodigy, redefined the mid-lane with his unconventional hero picks and aggressive playstyle. Rising from obscurity to OG’s championship roster, his unpredictable strategies make him a favourite for high-risk, high-reward bets, particularly on kill totals and MVP markets. With over $5.7 million in earnings, he remains a name that keeps bookmakers on their toes.
8. Kuro "KuroKy" Takhasomi
Specialisation: Dota 2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Around $700,000 to $850,000 per event
Win/Loss Ratio: Approximately 57% across his extensive career.
Betting Trends: Bettors value his experience and consistent team leadership.
Kuro "KuroKy" Takhasomi, a Dota 2 veteran from Germany, has captained some of the most successful teams in esports history, including Team Liquid. Known for his deep hero pool and razor-sharp tactical mind, he’s a go-to choice for betting on assists, strategic plays, and team success. With career earnings exceeding $5.3 million, KuroKy remains one of the most dependable names to back.
9. Kirill "Cloud" Nekhozhin
Specialisation: Valorant
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Approx. $500,000 to $650,000 per event.
Win/Loss Ratio: Around 55% in recent tournaments.
Betting Trends: Attracts bets due to rapid ascent and strong performances with GIANTX.
Kirill "Cloud" Nekhozhin, a rising Valorant star, has made a name for himself with GIANTX, delivering clutch plays and unshakable composure under pressure. His precision and tactical awareness make him a strong pick for first-kill wagers and high-impact rounds. With his stock rising fast, bettors and bookmakers alike are watching his every move.
10. Semyon "Purp0" Borchev
Specialisation: Valorant
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Around $450,000 to $600,000 per event.
Win/Loss Ratio: Approximately 54% in competitive play.
Betting Trends: Known for sharpshooting skills, making him a favourite in specific in-game betting markets.
Semyon "Purp0" Borchev has carved out a reputation as one of Valorant’s most clinical fraggers. Representing GIANTX, his sharp reflexes and precision under pressure make him a prime target for headshot-related bets and high-kill markets. As his career gathers momentum, sportsbooks are keeping a close eye on his stats.
Data Sources: Global Esports Betting Monitor, Business Research Insights, Grand View Research
Why Do Many Of The Top 6 Players Specialise In Dota 2?
When it comes to esports betting, League of Legends (LoL) and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) dominate in terms of overall betting volume, but individual players don’t attract the same level of wagers as in Dota 2.
LoL is heavily team-oriented, which means success typically hinges on coordination rather than individual brilliance. Thus, most bets focus on teams rather than star players. In CS:GO, elite players exist, but the sheer number of skilled competitors means betting interest is more evenly spread.
Dota 2, however, is different. The game’s high-stakes environment, unpredictable plays, and record-breaking prize pools, especially at The International, make its top players household names in the betting world. When millions are on the line, bettors naturally gravitate toward the biggest playmakers.
Top 10 Esports Teams By Estimated Wagered Amount In 2025
Esports betting has exploded in popularity, with millions of dollars placed on the biggest teams across major tournaments. But which teams attract the most betting action, and how much money is wagered on them? While exact figures aren’t made public, we’ve estimated the top 10 most wagered-on esports teams for 2025 using a data-driven approach.
These estimates are based on several key factors, such as the esports betting market by game title, viewership figures, and sportsbook activity, to see where the money is going. Teams that dominate Counter-Strike 2, League of Legends, and Dota 2 naturally attract the heaviest betting interest. By analysing team performance, fan engagement, and historical betting patterns, we’ve built a ranking of the teams set to lead the betting markets in 2025.
1. Team Liquid
Esport Specialisation: CS2, Dota 2, LoL
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $155.2 to $162.8 million
Win/Loss Ratio: Win rate above 58% across major tournaments
Betting Trends: Favourite for match-winner bets, tournament outrights, and map handicaps
Team Liquid is a significant force across multiple esports titles, consistently attracting high betting volumes in Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, and League of Legends. Their CS2 squad is a frequent contender in significant tournaments, with punters frequently backing them for map handicaps and outright wins. In Dota 2, they are a fan favourite in The International, where massive wagers are placed on their performance. Meanwhile, their LCS team remains a strong bet in regional leagues and global events, ensuring sustained betting interest.
2. Fnatic
Esport Specialisation: CS2, LoL
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $145.3 to $151.7 million
Win/Loss Ratio: Consistently above 60% across major tournaments.
Betting Trends: Bettors favour Fnatic for tournament outrights, match-winner bets, and in-game objectives
Fnatic is one of esports’ longest-standing titans, drawing millions in wagers across Counter-Strike 2 and League of Legends. Their CS2 roster has been a dominant force for years, making them a trusted bet in majors and playoff matches. Meanwhile, their LoL division remains a fixture of the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC), frequently reaching international events where the betting handle spikes. With a strong winning culture and a history of deep tournament runs, Fnatic is a favourite among bettors seeking reliability and value odds.
3. Astralis
Esport Specialisation: CS2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $134.2 to $139.5 million
Win/Loss Ratio: Above 62% in top-tier CS2 tournaments
Betting Trends: Favoured for tournament outrights, match-winner bets, and round handicaps.
Astralis is one of the most successful Counter-Strike teams of all time, dominating the scene with multiple victories and a reputation for tactical excellence. Their ability to execute high-pressure plays makes them popular in outright and handicap betting markets. Known for structured gameplay and clutch performances, Astralis often attracts large pre-match bets and live wagers.
4. G2 Esports
Esport Specialisation: CS2, LoL
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $123.1 to $127.9 million
Win/Loss Ratio: Maintains above 60% across top competitions
Betting Trends: Bettors favour G2 Esports for tournament outrights, match-winner bets, and map totals
G2 Esports is known for its high-energy playstyle and ability to thrive under pressure, making it a top choice for bettors in Counter-Strike 2 and League of Legends. Their CS2 roster consistently competes in high-profile tournaments, attracting heavy betting interest in map totals and round handicaps. In League of Legends, G2 remains dominant in LEC betting markets, often backed for match-winner and tournament outrights. G2 thrives in comeback situations, making it a prime choice for live betting markets where odds shift dramatically mid-match.
5. Natus Vincere (Na'Vi)
Esport Specialisation: CS2, Dota 2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $112.1 to $116.9 million
Win/Loss Ratio: Above 61% in top-tier competitions
Betting Trends: Bettors favour Na’Vi for match-winner bets, tournament outrights, and player-specific props
Natus Vincere, better known as Na’Vi, is an elite squad to bet on in Counter-Strike 2 and Dota 2, thanks to their consistent top-tier performances and legendary player rosters. Their CS2 squad, known for dominant aim duels and strategic depth, is frequently backed in match-winner and round-total markets. In Dota 2, Na’Vi’s legacy as an early International champion keeps them in high demand for outright winner bets. Furthermore, their ability to excel under pressure makes them a go-to choice for high-stakes wagers.
6. Evil Geniuses
Esport Specialisation: CS2, Dota 2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $101.4 to $105.2 million
Win/Loss Ratio: Above 59% in major competitions
Betting Trends: Bettors favour Evil Geniuses for match-winner bets, tournament outrights, and underdog upsets
Evil Geniuses is a big name in esports, with a legacy built on tactical brilliance and high-stakes victories. Their CS2 squad is known for aggressive playmaking and bold strategies, making them a favourite in round handicaps and map total bets. Meanwhile, their Dota 2 roster consistently performs well in The International, where massive wagers are placed on their deep tournament runs. With a reputation for surprising upsets and resilient gameplay, they remain a popular choice for high-reward betting markets.
7. T1
Esport Specialisation: LoL
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $89.6 to $94.3 million
Win/Loss Ratio: A win rate above 65% in top-tier competitions
Betting Trends: Bettors favour T1 for tournament outrights, match-winner bets, and MVP selections
T1 is synonymous with League of Legends excellence, boasting multiple World Championship titles and a legacy that has shaped the competitive arena. Led by iconic players and elite coaching, they are a dominant force in LCK and international events, making them a top pick for outright winners and first-blood markets. Their ability to outmanoeuvre top-tier opponents keeps them among the most wagered-on teams, with consistent betting action in match-winner bets and MVP prop markets.
8. OG
Esport Specialisation: Dota 2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $78.9 to $82.3 million
Win/Loss Ratio: Above 60% in major tournaments
Betting Trends: Bettors favour OG for tournament outrights, match-winner bets, and comeback wagers
OG is a legendary name in Dota 2, famous for their unsurpassed back-to-back victories at The International. Known for their aggressive playstyle and high-risk strategies, they attract heavy betting action in outright markets and match-winner wagers. Their ability to thrive under pressure, particularly in elimination matches, makes them a favourite for live betting markets. With a lineup consistently delivering in high-stakes competitions, OG remains one of the most bet-on teams in Dota 2's competitive circuit.
9. FaZe Clan
Esport Specialisation: CS2
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $67.8 to $70.6 million
Win/Loss Ratio: Win rate above 58% in elite-level competitions
Betting Trends: Bettors favour FaZe Clan for match-winner bets, round handicaps, and upset victories
FaZe Clan is one of CS2’s most explosive teams, known for their highly skilled roster and fearless playstyle. Their unpredictable yet thrilling matches make them a prime target for live betting markets where odds shift rapidly. FaZe is notorious for pulling off upsets against top-tier opponents, leading to strong backing in underdog markets. With a history of deep tournament runs and significant victories, they remain popular for bettors seeking high-risk, high-reward opportunities.
10. Cloud9
Esport Specialisation: CS2, LoL
Estimated Wagered Amount in 2025: Between $56.2 to $59.5 million
Win/Loss Ratio: Above 57% across major competitions
Betting Trends: Bettors favour Cloud9 for match-winner bets, live betting swings, and futures markets
Cloud9 has built a reputation for resilience and high-impact performances in Counter-Strike 2 and League of Legends, making them a popular team for esports bettors. Their CS2 squad, known for technical precision and strategic depth, often attracts pre-match wagers and live betting action. In LoL, Cloud9 remains a dominant force in the LCS, with frequent deep playoff runs drawing significant betting interest. Their ability to adapt under pressure and upset top-tier teams ensures high betting volumes across multiple markets.
Data Sources: esportsearnings.com, esportscharts.com, Grand View Research
Maximising Profitability: Unique Insights for iGaming Professionals
Esports betting is growing and evolving at a pace that requires operators to think ahead. While CS2, Dota 2, and League of Legends dominate in total wagers, the real question is where the smart money is going. Bettors typically don’t just back teams. They’re exploring special markets, from map handicaps and round totals in CS2 to first-blood wagers in LoL. Recognising these micro-trends is where iGaming platforms can gain an edge over competitors.
For forward-thinking operators, market diversification is no longer optional, and the old-school approach of offering just match-winner odds isn’t enough. Today’s esports bettors expect custom props, live betting with real-time odds shifts, and player performance wagers. Some of the sharpest bettors now place bets during decisive in-game moments, forcing operators to refine risk management strategies to maintain profitability. Offering live in-play bets, like predicting game-altering plays in real time, can increase engagement and drive higher margins.
Star power can’t be ignored, either. Top performers like Faker and N0tail are more than esports icons; they’re betting magnets. Sportsbooks see a surge in betting volume when they play, with bettors looking for enhanced odds, player props, and outright markets. Operators who time their promotions with boosted odds or free bets around high-profile matchups will capture casual bettors while maximising turnover.
At the heart of esports betting lies one truth: data is everything. Platforms that leverage predictive odds, track emerging player trends, and adjust betting lines in real time will set themselves apart.
Inside the Mind of an Esports Bettor
Esports bettors aren’t your typical sports punters. They grew up in a digital-first world, where gaming is a lifestyle. Most fall between 18 and 35 and are tech-proficient audiences that value interactivity, rapid decision-making, and community-driven experiences. Unlike traditional bettors, they don’t just follow teams. They deeply analyse individual player performances, map strategies, and seek data-driven edges.
Betting behaviour leans heavily towards in-play wagers, with real-time odds shifting as the action unfolds. The appeal isn’t just about picking a winner. For many, it’s about predicting micro-moments like the first elimination, economy rounds in CS2, or Roshan kills in Dota 2. Ultimately, there’s a strong desire for continuity, with esports bettors often placing multiple bets within a single game as strategies evolve.
For these reasons, operators looking to capture this audience need more than appealing odds. Bets tailored to in-game events, Twitch integrations and AI-driven recommendations can make all the difference.
The Future of Esports Betting Innovation
One of the most exciting developments in capturing the attention of modern sports bettors is the advent of in-play and micro-betting options. Such features allow enthusiasts to place wagers on live events as they happen, offering opportunities to bet on specific in-game occurrences. This real-time engagement heightens excitement and attracts a modern audience seeking interactive experiences.
Top operators in 2025 are revolutionising the esports betting experience by introducing markets that go beyond traditional wagering. Instead of conventional win/loss bets, esports platforms now offer dynamic options such as in-game performance wagers, skill-based challenges, and player-specific predictions.
Leading the charge in esports innovation is Altenar, a sportsbook provider that’s taking esports betting to the next level. Through its partnership with DATA.BET, Altenar delivers official real-time data feeds, a dedicated esports betting hub, and customisable solutions tailored for a rapidly growing audience. With coverage spanning over 30 esports disciplines and more than 2,000 markets, deep market insights and advanced integrations, Altenar equips operators with everything needed to capitalise on the esports boom.
Esports betting isn’t a trend. It’s the future - and the future is happening right now! Altenar’s advanced sportsbook technology delivers real-time data, custom markets, and unified esports integration. Book a demo today and discover how we can take your betting platform to the next level.
