# What is the number one esport in the world?

> League of Legends is usually called the #1 esport by viewership, while Counter-Strike and Dota 2 lead in other ways such as events and prize money.

League of Legends is most often called the number one esport in the world, because its World Championship regularly sets esports viewership records. But "number one" depends on what you measure: Counter-Strike 2 has the deepest calendar of top tournaments, Dota 2's The International set prize-pool records, and mobile titles such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang draw enormous viewership in Southeast Asia.

## The main contenders

- **League of Legends.** Regional leagues worldwide, the yearly World Championship and the best-known pro player, Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok, a multiple world champion.
- **Counter-Strike 2.** The successor to CS:GO, with many top-level events every year and Majors as the highlight.
- **Dota 2.** Famous for The International, whose crowdfunded prize pools exceeded $40 million at their peak.
- **Valorant.** Riot's tactical shooter with a fast-growing international circuit.
- **Mobile esports.** Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, PUBG Mobile and Honor of Kings attract huge audiences in Asia.

## Why League stays on top

It has been a major esport for more than a decade, is free to play, has stable leagues in every region and a world final that is a major live event. Riot's investment in production and storytelling, along with Arcane, keeps attention high.

## FAQ

**Who is the number one esports player?**
Faker is the most widely recognized. In career prize money, top Dota 2 players have earned the most because of The International's huge prize pools.

**Is League or Valorant more popular?**
League has a larger and older esports audience. Valorant is younger and growing quickly, especially in shooter-focused regions.

**Why is esports becoming so popular?**
Free games, streaming platforms, mobile access and professional leagues have made it easy to watch and follow players like traditional athletes.

**Is League of Legends the most played game?**
It is one of the most played PC games, but depending on how players are counted, other titles, especially big mobile games, can rank higher.

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https://gamevoyages.com/what-is-the-1-esport-in-the-world/ · Game Voyage · Checked 2026-10-30