PGL Masters Bucharest 2025 became a tournament that redefined the balance of power in the CS2 world. Aurora achieved a historic breakthrough by winning their first major international trophy, and İsmailcan “XANTARES” Dörtkardeş emerged as the event’s biggest star. HLTV has released its list of the top ten players of the tournament, with the Turkish leader of Aurora rightfully claiming the #1 spot and the MVP title with a 1.27 rating across 23 maps.
XANTARES (Aurora) — Rating 1.27
The tournament MVP and the face of Aurora’s triumph. XANTARES finally earned the first LAN MVP award of his career after a phenomenal performance in Bucharest. His confidence, consistency, and mechanical precision became the foundation of the Turkish team’s success.
Over 23 maps, he recorded a +75 K-D difference and a 1.21 K/D ratio. His performance in the grand final against Legacy — where he repeatedly saved his team from potential comebacks — marked the culmination of a five-year journey from an overlooked talent to a true champion. He wasn’t just the statistical leader — he was Aurora’s emotional core, setting the tone and tempo for every match.
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blameF (fnatic) — Rating 1.42
Although his team didn’t win the event, Benjamin “blameF” Bremer delivered a masterclass in individual performance, finishing with the highest rating of the tournament — 1.42. Across eight maps, he posted +48 K-D and a 1.44 K/D, marking a triumphant return to form.
blameF has finally found the balance between personal efficiency and leadership. fnatic looked composed and well-structured under his direction, and his tactical vision once again became a weapon. Many analysts consider this his best event since his Astralis days.
xfl0ud (Heroic) — Rating 1.32
Heroic’s new chapter began in Bucharest, led by Engin “xfl0ud” Kor. The Turkish rifler played nine maps with +34 K-D, combining stable performance with moments of brilliance.
His calculated aggression, clean positioning, and clutch ability earned Heroic several surprising victories. After years spent on the sidelines, xfl0ud finally received well-deserved recognition — and his partnership with nilo became the backbone of the team’s revival.
4. PR (GamerLegion) — Rating 1.25
The star of GamerLegion, PR played a career-defining tournament, blending aggression with composure. His +55 K-D and impact against top-tier opponents proved he’s ready to compete for major trophies. GamerLegion once again showed they can challenge the best, largely thanks to PR’s consistency and leadership during both the group and playoff stages.
5. nilo (Heroic) — Rating 1.24
The young Swede continues to impress. nilo finished with a +43 K-D and a 1.24 rating, confirming his role as one of Heroic’s brightest prospects. Alongside xfl0ud, he brought structure and balance back to the lineup. His calmness under pressure stood out, with performances on Nuke and Mirage showcasing his game sense and tactical discipline beyond his years.
6. Wicadia (Aurora) — Rating 1.19
The rising Turkish prodigy Wicadia perfectly complemented XANTARES, displaying controlled aggression, exceptional timing, and seamless team synergy. With +43 K-D across 23 maps, he proved himself a reliable second star in Aurora’s championship campaign. His adaptability and sharp decision-making were instrumental in maintaining Aurora’s dominance throughout the playoffs.
7. Lucky (3DMAX) — Rating 1.17
French sniper Lucky became the cornerstone of the revitalized 3DMAX lineup. His composure and precision carried the team through the Swiss Stage, allowing them to challenge even higher-ranked opponents. Across nine maps, Lucky’s steadiness helped reignite optimism in the French CS2 scene — a sign that the region’s revival is finally underway.
8. xKacpersky (Ninjas in Pyjamas) — Rating 1.17
The Polish newcomer xKacpersky was one of the biggest revelations of the event. His fearless, high-tempo playstyle breathed new life into NiP. With a +23 K-D and 1.17 rating, he proved capable of competing at the top level and performing under pressure. Although NiP couldn’t go deep in the event, his performance gave the team a glimpse of a promising future.
9. Tauson (GamerLegion) — Rating 1.16
Another representative of GamerLegion, Tauson played a pivotal role in the team’s playoff run. With a +46 K-D and consistent displays under pressure, he solidified his position as one of the most dependable riflers on the roster. His synergy with PR helped GamerLegion maintain rhythm and confidence even against powerhouses like Aurora and Heroic.
10. Ex3rcice (3DMAX) — Rating 1.13
Rounding out the top ten is another French player — Ex3rcice. Despite a –7 K-D, his experience and teamwork were crucial to 3DMAX’s success. His steadiness and supportive playstyle enabled the team to advance through the group stage and make a strong impression on the international stage — a milestone for the French squad.
A New Generation Steps Into the Spotlight
HLTV’s top 10 list from PGL Masters Bucharest 2025 reflects a defining transition in the CS2 era. At the forefront stands XANTARES, the veteran who reached the peak of his career after years of perseverance, surrounded by rising names such as PR, nilo, Wicadia, and xKacpersky.
The competitive landscape has become truly global — Turkish, Scandinavian, French, and Eastern European players now stand side by side, blurring generational lines.
PGL Masters Bucharest proved that a new era in CS2 has arrived — and its leaders are no longer afraid of history.
