eSports is an abbreviation for ‘electronic sports’ and it refers to the competitions hosted by online games like League of Legends, Global Offensive and Fortnite.
In 2024, the eSports industry continues its global ascent and recognition. This is because the eSports industry connects fans of a game to its top athletes. That is, the eSports industry makes these top athletes seem human and within reach of fans when compared to everyday sports. But there is more to eSports athletes.
Who is an eSports Athlete?
An eSports athlete is a professional video game player who has spent many hours honing their skills (in a specific game or couple of games). These people are not casual players who play for the thrill. Instead, they compete at the highest levels of tournaments and contests, often representing teams and organizations.
It is interesting to note that unlike traditional athletes like Lionel Messi, Christiano Ronaldo and Aitana Bonmatí who excel in physical sports, eSports athletes’ expertise is in digital arenas and places where reaction times, strategic thinking, and teamwork are important.
Who are the Best eSports Athletes Right Now?
It is safe to say that the best eSports athletes are equally the most popular esports players in 2024. These players are not only known for their in-game skills, but also for the influence they wield outside the game too with large fanbases. The most popular eSports players in 2024 are:
1. Faker (Lee Sang-hyeok) – League of Legends
Lee Sang-hyeok, a 28-year old man from Korea, popularly known as Faker, is one of the most marketable eSports athletes today. Even after a decade from his debut, he is a force to reckon with and has been tagged the “Unkillable Demon King.”
Despite huge sponsorships from brands like Nike, Red Bull and Samsung, Faker is known for his humble personality when interacting with fans.
2. Bugha (Kyle Giersdorf) – Fortnite
Unlike Faker, Kyle Giersdorf who's better known as Bugha came into the limelight after winning the inaugural Fortnite World Cup in 2019.
He is a 21-year old American who has established himself as one of the best eSports athletes right now. Because of his age, Bugha appeals more to younger audiences and has gotten sponsorship from brands targeting Gen Z customers.
3. S1mple (Oleksandr Kostyliev) – Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
S1mple is considered one of the greatest CS:GO players of all time, but why? S1mple, who is of Ukrainian descent, joined Natus Vincere (NAVI) in 2016 and since then, has won more than 10 tournaments, including the PGL Major Stockholm 2021.
He has also been named one of the top three players of the year by HLTV three times, earned 17 MVPs and played on over 1,000 maps for the Born to Win.
Closing Thoughts
In 2024, eSports has evolved from being a niche market to global recognition and is bound to rival traditional sports in the years ahead in terms of viewership, fan engagement, and financial opportunities.
As eSports continues to grow, the athletes at its forefront will undoubtedly shape the future of competitive gaming. Their marketability, influence, and ability to connect with a global audience will ensure that eSports remains a dynamic and exciting field for years to come.