December 28, 2023
The esports landscape is evolving into a more inclusive and diverse space. In 2024, women are making strides in what used to be a “male-dominated” industry. It’s worth celebrating and highlighting the achievements of top female esports pro players in 2024 who broke the ceiling and played at large-scale esports events.
These female players, with their fingers deftly dancing across keyboards and controllers, are scripting a story of triumph, resilience, and unbridled skill. They’ve transcended the constraints of gender stereotypes, challenging preconceptions and proving that within the pixelated battlegrounds, the playing field is level, and prowess knows no gender.
These are the top female esports pro players in 2024 in terms of popularity and income.
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Scarlett – Sasha Hostyn
In competitive esports, Sasha Hostyn, widely known as Scarlett, stands not only as a female prodigy but as the highest-earning woman in esports, amassing a staggering $458,341.
Hostyn’s journey commenced in April 2011 when she conquered the online female-only StarCraft II league, the NESL Iron Lady, clinching victory twice that year. Her triumphs snowballed, leading to a breakthrough in the IPL 4 open qualifiers in Las Vegas and a rampage through the StarCraft II World Championship Series Canada, ultimately making her Canada’s national champion with an outstanding record of 12-1. From winning the 2012 WCS North American Championship to her recent exploits, Scarlett’s Zerg prowess has dominated 178 tournaments, solidifying her legacy in the annals of eSports history.
Li “Liooon” Xiao Meng
In the realm of Hearthstone, Li Xiao Meng, better known as Liooon, reigns as a mastermind with total earnings approximating $241,670.
Liooon etched her name in history by claiming 1st place at the GrandMasters 2019 – Global Finals, a triumph that garnered her a princely sum of $200,000. With a mere 9 tournaments under her belt, Liooon has not just conquered but crafted a legacy of strategic brilliance, placing 1st once and securing the runner-up position twice.
Mystik – Katherine Gunn
A blast from the past, Katherine Gunn, known as Mystik, seamlessly transitioned from the CGS 2007 competition to become a dominant force in gaming. With a career spanning Dead or Alive 4 to the iconic Halo Reach, Gunn’s prowess was evident in every move.
Her captivating journey includes a second-place finish in CGS 2007, earning $15,000, and a triumphant victory in Halo Reach, claiming $100,000. Mystik’s skills continue to resonate through the gaming landscape, proving that true mastery withstands the test of time.
vilga – Ksenia Klyuenkova
Ksenia Klyuenkova, renowned as vilga, stands as CSGO royalty with a total earnings tallying approximately $112,850.
Her glittering career includes gold in seventeen tournaments, demonstrating her uncanny ability in the competitive arena. Notable victories, such as the WESG 2017 (CSGO Female), have contributed to her success, with the highest single-tournament earnings reaching $20,000. A seasoned competitor, vilga has represented esteemed teams like Bad Monkey Gaming, Team Secret, and Counter Logic Gaming, cementing her place as a relentless force in the world of CSGO.
HaganeNoTema – Sioban Bielamowicz
Hailing from Australia, Sioban Bielamowicz, also known as HaganeNoTema, has etched her name in the esports archives as a World Cup Champion. Specializing in fighting games like Attack on Titan and Brawlhalla, Bielamowicz’s journey since 2014 has been marked by success.
Her dominance in Attack on Titan, especially during 2017 and 2018, showcases her prowess, earning her an approximate total of $80,489. Bielamowicz’s versatility and skill make her one of the best fighter players in the world.
zAAz – Zainab Turkie
Zainab Turkie, aka zAAz, is a true Counter-Strike veteran, having embarked on her professional journey in 2002 at the age of fourteen. With a career spanning almost two decades, zAAz has earned a total of $54,593 in prize money.
Her formidable presence has been felt in thirty-two tournaments, with notable affiliations with organizations like Alternate aTTaX, Fnatic, and her current team, Besiktas esports. Turkie’s enduring passion for the game has translated into increased success in recent years, proving that time has only strengthened her prowess.
juliano – Julia Kiran
Julia Kiran, known as juliano, is a Swedish female esports pro whose journey from Counter-Strike 1.6 to CSGO is adorned with success. With total approximate earnings of $50,191 from twenty-eight tournaments, Juliano has left an indelible mark on the competitive scene.
Her career boasts eighteen gold medals, with notable victories at DreamHack Showdown Valencia 2019, where she earned $10,000. A versatile player, juliano has showcased her skills in Dota 2 and Heroes of Newerth, making her a revered figure in the eSports realm.
Ant1ka – Anna Ananikova
Anna Ananikova, revered as Ant1ka, stands as a decorated virtuoso in the world of CSGO. With affiliations to renowned teams like Team Secret, Lazarus, Counter Logic Gaming, and the Russian National Team, Ananikova has earned approximately $43,658 in her career.
While her tournament participation has been limited, with only fourteen appearances, her impact has been significant. Recognized for her talent, Ananikova’s journey, particularly with Team Secret, culminated in victory at the 2016 esports World Convention, marking her prowess as a force to be reckoned with in the CSGO arena.