As we all eagerly anticipate the launch of Counter-Strike 2, the esports scene of the 11-year-long Global Offensive saga has drawn to a spectacular close. The last CS:GO Major, hosted in Paris, saw Vitality emerge as champions. But this victory was far from standard: It symbolised a series of firsts and records. Given that all future pro tournaments will be conducted on Counter-Strike 2, this Major holds immense significance for all players, particularly for Dupreeh and Zonic.
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Vitality Is the Paris Major Champions
Vitality pulled off an impressive win at the Paris Major with a newly-formed roster, specifically constructed for this championship. Over the years, the previously all-French team underwent a transformative reinvention in 2022, assuming an international identity. The inclusion of Dupreeh and Magisk, both previous champions with Astralis, as well as the signing of Ence’s superstar, Spinx, helped Vitality evolve into a formidable force, alongside Apex and Zywoo.
Despite initial difficulties, with some suggesting that this team was a fruitless investment, these doubts have now been entirely put to rest. Remarkably, Vitality achieved Major champion status without conceding a single map. Here are the matches they dominated, listed in reverse order starting from the final, on their triumphant road to the championship:
- Vitality 2-0 GamerLegion
- Vitality 2-0 Apeks
- Into the Breach 0-2 Vitality
- Vitality 2-0 Monte
- Ence 0-1 Vitality
- G2 0-1 Vitality
The fact they didn’t lose a single map is already a monumental achievement, but the significance of the championship becomes even more poignant when you delve a little deeper. It becomes evident that many players, most notably Dupreeh, had been eagerly awaiting this championship.
Dupreeh Wins Most Majors in CS:GO History
Danish rifler, a seasoned player who previously clinched four Majors wearing the Astralis jersey, was on par with his former teammates prior to this championship. Dev1ce, Xyp9x, and Gla1ve, who had been by his side through many battles, each also boasted four Major championships. However, Dupreeh, by securing the trophy in Paris, achieved his fifth individual title and has thus etched his name in CS:GO history as the player with the most Major wins.
Magisk, another key player, matched his former teammates by clinching his fourth championship. Zonic, who also transitioned from Astralis to Vitality, bagged his fifth title as a coach and maintained his top-tier status in this domain.
This championship marked a significant milestone for the Vitality team as well. It’s the first time the organisation has emerged victorious from a Major. Apex, the in-game leader who has been with the team for over a decade, also savoured the taste of a Major victory for the first time.
Don’t forget the Spinx – he became the first Israeli player to win a Major.
Arguably the most exciting news is reserved for Zywoo, the ‘Prince of CS:GO‘. One of the greatest players in the game’s history, this French AWPer had an astonishing run, topping it off with his first-ever (And well-deserved) Major trophy. The superstar also received the coveted MVP award for both the final match and the tournament as a whole.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Is the First CS2 Major?
The first Counter-Strike 2 Major will kick off on March 17, 2024. Running through until the 31st of March, this much-anticipated tournament will be hosted in the vibrant city of Copenhagen. PGL, the renowned tournament organiser, has chosen a slightly later start date for the event to ensure professional players have sufficient time to immerse themselves in the new game and hone their skills. As the first ever CS2 Major, you can be certain that every team and player will be pushing their limits, eager to etch their names in history as the maiden champions of Counter-Strike 2.
How Many Majors Does S1mple Have?
S1mple, known as the greatest player in the history of CS:GO, boasts just a single Major championship to his name. Interestingly, his regular competition, Zywoo, shares this accolade, having snagged the championship in Paris. Both chaps are now firmly focused on Counter-Strike 2, ready to prove their mettle once again. It’s worth mentioning that the recognition of S1mple as one of the best is not founded on his trophy cabinet. If we’re being perfectly honest, doesn’t exactly match up with the legends of the game in terms of championships.
What Will Happen to CS:GO?
We’ve got precious little time left before we bid farewell to CS:GO. With the release of Counter-Strike 2 on the horizon, Global Offensive is set to become a relic of the past. Now, don’t misunderstand us: CS2 isn’t an entirely new beast, but rather an ambitious update to our existing CS:GO. Rest assured, all your hard-earned items from the old game will be shifted to CS2 in a second. Best part? This considerable update won’t cost you a quid.
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