Professional and amateur sports leagues: how they are organised

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Some play for millions, others for the love of the game. Children play ball in the courtyard, dreaming of the World Cup, while sports stars sign multi-million dollar contracts. Team unions are not just a structure, they are two universes: one for those who make sport their life’s work and one for those who simply cannot live without the game. How are they structured and why are they so different? That is what is to be found out. Sports leagues are not only professionals making millions, but also amateurs who do it for themselves and their friends.

Professional and amateur sports leagues: how they are created and how they differ

Associations start with an idea and enthusiasm. Professional sports associations, such as the NBA, require careful organisation, licensing, compliance with a multitude of regulations and serious sponsors. They require a detailed business plan, funding calculations and legal advice. Leagues have to meet strict requirements, from the management structure to the logistics of tournaments.

On the other hand, the entry level is often the result of the joint desire of a group of people to organise something interesting for their friends or colleagues. For example, an amateur ice hockey club in Russia may spring up simply because a few enthusiasts decide to organise their own games and enter local tournaments. Here, formalities are minimised and the main driving factor is the passion for the game and the desire to meet like-minded hockey fans.

Types of sports leagues: from national to international

Alliances come in a variety of forms, and their classification is not limited only to the level of skill. Here we can talk about national, international, corporate and university alliances.

National leagues: An example is the English Premier League, the highest league in English football. It captures the attention of millions of viewers and generates huge revenues for the country. The association generates around £5 billion annually, with a worldwide broadcast audience of over 3.2 billion people. This makes it one of the most profitable and popular football federations in the world, as evidenced by high revenues from television rights and sponsorship contracts.
International leagues: For example, the Champions League is a tournament that brings together the best football clubs in Europe, showcasing power and technique at the highest level. The union attracts more than 380 million spectators worldwide each year and generates around €2.4 billion in revenue. The funds are distributed to participating clubs, allowing them to strengthen their squads and develop their infrastructure. It is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world of football and winning it opens the door to huge commercial opportunities.
Corporate leagues and university competitions: In Russia, student football associations involving teams from universities have gained popularity. For example, the student team of Moscow State University (MSU) successfully competes in various championships and has even participated in international student tournaments. Such events create an opportunity for students not only to compete, but also to show their best side in front of potential scouts of professional clubs.

Funding of sports leagues

The funding of professional and amateur sports leagues differs dramatically. Professional leagues receive funds from major sponsors, sign lucrative contracts with TV channels for broadcasting, and actively raise funds from the sale of merchandise and tickets. For example, the NBA earns billions of dollars annually through partnership agreements and television rights, which allows the community to attract the best players from around the world.

Funding of amateur sports leagues in Russia

Start-up unions, on the contrary, usually exist through membership fees, support from local companies and donations. In Russia, many ice hockey clubs are supported by local entrepreneurs who are interested in developing the sport on their territory. They provide funding to rent ice, buy uniforms and organise competitions. Often these entrepreneurs used to play hockey themselves and want to contribute to the development of hockey.

Local administrations sometimes provide subsidies, and players and fans are actively involved in fundraising to cover various expenses. This creates a real community atmosphere where every contribution, whether financial or organisational, counts and is felt by all involved.

Differences between professional and amateur sports leagues: level of competition and popularity

Sports leagues differ not only in organisation, but also in the level of competition. Professional ones are world-class shows where competition reaches a peak and millions of spectators follow the players’ every move. For example, the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) attracts huge audiences and provides team members with substantial salaries, making it a prestigious and desirable platform for athletes.

Amateur, on the other hand, is more “homegrown.” Players do not aspire to become stars, but enjoy the game for fun. At district hockey tournaments, they compete for the honour of their neighbourhood or company, and the atmosphere is much more family-like and relaxed. Despite their differences, both associations contribute to the development of sports culture and to attracting people to an active lifestyle.

From professionalism to pure passion

Sports leagues play an important role in our lives because they give us emotions, unforgettable matches and the opportunity to feel part of something bigger. Professional leagues are the pinnacle of excellence and prestige, while beginners’ associations are the soul of sport, where everyone can feel like a champion. Whether you are a professional athlete or an amateur, there is always a place for everyone in sport.

CS:GO Major Championships: History, Development and Participants 2024

The CS:GO Major Championships are rightly considered the pinnacle of global eSports. Tournaments bring together the best players and teams and define new boundaries for the popular Counter-Strike discipline. Since their inception in 2013, the Majors have come a long way and have become an iconic event. Competitions set the standard for professionalism and innovation and create new trends.

History of CS:GO Majors

The first CS: GO Major Championship took place during DreamHack Winter 2013 in Sweden. The tournament brought together the best teams of the moment, and Fnatic emerged as the winner by defeating NiP in a thrilling final. This event was a revolutionary step in the development of eSports, as the total prize money was $250,000, a record for those years.

Major milestones in development

CS:GO Major Championships have been a symbol of professionalism for over 10 years. Tournaments like ESL One Cologne 2014 have popularized the use of modern technology in refereeing. The switch to the Swiss system in 2017 added to the spectacle and made the matches even more exciting.

A major milestone was the first major participation of the Chinese team TyLoo in 2016. This event underlined the globalization of the team’s course and the expansion of the geographical reach of the participants.

Legendary moments

Astralis has become a model of consistency, winning four consecutive majors between 2018 and 2019. The finals with them are master lessons in tactics and teamwork. An equally impressive moment was the final stage of the PGL Major Stockholm 2021, where NAVI won the entire tournament without losing a single map.

Event format and features: regulations

Modern races consist of three stages:

Challenger Stage: 16 teams compete for 8 spots to advance to the next round.
Legends Stage: The best 8 teams from the previous tournament compete against the winners of the previous stage.
The Champions Stage is a play-off round with direct elimination to determine the final winners of major CS:GO competitions.

Each stage is conducted according to the Swiss system, which allows for the best results to be determined in the most objective way possible. The final part of the tournament is played in a best-of-three format, which minimizes random outcomes. Technology has become an important part of the organization:

Introduction of augmented reality elements for the analysis and visualization of team tactics.
We use Valve’s anti-cheat systems to ensure fair play.
4K broadcasts with multi-camera support have improved the viewing experience.

Audience participation

The elderly actively involve the spectators in the process. For example, virtual fan zones were introduced at IEM Katowice 2023, where people could interact with the stream via chat and voting. A platform is planned to launch in 2024 where fans can support teams by sending virtual gifts and participating in interactive events.

CS:GO 2024 Main Event Participants

The 2024 tournament was the stage for titans like NAVI and Vitality. These teams have repeatedly proven their strength by winning previous major titles:

Vitality is the reigning champion and is known for its versatility.
Natus Vincere is a team known for its tactical innovations.

Newcomers and contenders

In 2024, young stars like Cloud9 and Monte made their debut. These teams use an aggressive style of play that challenges veterans. Regions that were previously not strong players are now starting to assert themselves more actively, expanding the geographical reach of the participants.

Stats and achievements of the 2024 CS:GO Major Championships

Throughout the history of the tournament, NAVI and Astralis have remained the record holders for the number of titles and achievements. In 2021, NAVI became the first team to win without losing a single game, cementing their status as a dominant force in eSports.

Prize pool and its importance for the development of the CS:GO Grand Championships

The prize pool of major CS:GO tournaments plays an important role in raising the status of the tournament and attracting the attention of the eSports community. The prize pool, which started at $250,000 at DreamHack Winter 2013, has been steadily increasing, reaching an impressive $2,000,000 at the PGL Stockholm Major in 2021. In 2024, the organizers plan to set a new record by increasing the prize pool to $2,500,000, which will attract more talent and investors to the industry.

Details about the award ceremony:

The champion will receive 50% of the total amount.
Silver medalists will receive 25%.
The remaining amount will be divided among the participants in the quarterfinals and semifinals.

High financial rewards motivate teams to improve their tactical preparation and work on in-game innovations. In addition, Grand Prix events increase the prestige of the competition by providing additional funding for the development of young talent.

Legends of the Majors: Icons of the CS:GO Major Championships

Tournament Legends changed the eSports scene forever. Teams like Astralis left an indelible mark by winning a record four consecutive Major titles (2018-2019). Their dominant style of play has become a benchmark for other teams.

Olof “olofmeister” Kajbjer, Semple (Alexander Kostylev) and Nikolai “dev1ce” Reedtz have become symbols of the highest skill in Counter-Strike. Their performance and individual awards have earned them recognition on the international stage.

Notable matches and achievements:

Cloud9 vs FaZe Clan (Boston 2018): A dramatic final that ended with Cloud9 winning in overtime.
Astralis vs Team Liquid (Berlin 2019): The Danish team’s dominance ended in a landslide victory.

These matches have gone down in history not only for the level of execution, but also for the strategic depth the teams showed at every stage.

How the major CS:GO tournaments work

Organizing events requires a lot of effort. The matches are held in world-class stadiums, such as the Spodek Arena in Katowice and the Avicii Arena in Stockholm. To ensure high-quality broadcasts, we use state-of-the-art equipment and have professional commentators on hand.

The future of the major CS:GO championships

The CS:GO Major Championships continue to be one of the most important events in the world of esports. Each tournament raises the bar and attracts new players and spectators. The Majors are expected to set new records in 2024, cementing their status as an essential part of the esports ecosystem.

Future changes, such as the introduction of new technologies, larger prize pools, and broader tournament geography, will ensure that tournaments continue to inspire players and fans around the world.

April 9, 2025

Top 10 esports teams with the highest prize money in history

Esports has long outgrown the status of amateur competitions and has turned into a multimillion-dollar industry, where teams compete not only for prestige but also for huge prize pools. Today, the richest esports teams earn significant prize money (tens of millions of dollars), and players become world-class stars. Each tournament sets new records, while investors and sponsors increase interest in this field.

Let’s talk about the teams that are among the top wealthiest.

1. Team Liquid — the absolute leader in prize money

Team Liquid is one of the oldest and most successful organizations in esports. Founded in the Netherlands in 2000, the team started with Warcraft III and StarCraft II, then became a global giant. The main success came after entering Dota 2 and CS:GO disciplines. The organization actively expanded its rosters and invested in the industry, allowing it to achieve financial dominance. To date, Team Liquid has earned over $45 million, holding the top spot for total earnings in history.

Key achievements:

Victory at The International 2017 (Dota 2) — the organization’s biggest success, bringing in $10.8 million.
CS:GO Golden Era — winning the Intel Grand Slam 2019 with a $1 million bonus.
Dominance in other disciplines — stable positions in Valorant, League of Legends, StarCraft II.

Team Liquid remains a giant in the industry, consistently ranking among the best teams.

2. OG — two-time champions of The International

OG is a unique case in esports. It is the first team in history to win two consecutive The International championships — the biggest Dota 2 tournament. Until 2018, the team was considered a strong contender but not the main titleholder. However, victories at TI8 and TI9 not only changed OG’s history but also revolutionized the entire esports industry.

Main achievements:

The International 2018 and 2019 — $26.8 million in prize money over two years.
Championships in Dota 2 Majors — OG consistently wins Tier-1 tournaments.
Expansion beyond Dota 2 — the organization entered CS:GO and Valorant, expanding its influence.

OG is a living legend, setting new standards of success and attracting top esports players.

3. Team Spirit — giant from the CIS

Team Spirit has proven that a young team can change the course of history. Founded in 2015, the club was not considered elite for a long time, but everything changed in 2021. Winning The International 2021 brought in $18.2 million, making Team Spirit one of the top esports teams with the highest prize money in the world. In 2023, the club confirmed its status by winning an additional $5 million.

4. Evil Geniuses — legend of North American esports

Evil Geniuses is one of the oldest organizations, founded in 1999. The team entered the top global clubs by participating in the most prestigious tournaments. EG showed incredible results in Dota 2 but also excelled in CS:GO, League of Legends, and Call of Duty.

Financial success:

Championship at The International 2015 — $6.6 million.
Top positions in CS:GO and LoL — total awards exceeding $25 million.
Strong sponsors and partnerships — the organization actively attracts investors and brands.

Evil Geniuses continues to hold leading positions, developing various directions.

5. Natus Vincere (NAVI) — main team of the CIS

NAVI is a symbol of CIS esports. Since its founding in 2009, the club has won over $18 million, becoming one of the most decorated organizations. The main success came in CS:GO and Dota 2. NAVI gathers the best talents of the region and consistently ranks high in global ratings.

Key achievements:

Victory at PGL Major Stockholm 2021 (CS:GO) — $1 million, NAVI’s first major win.
The International 2011 final (Dota 2) — $1 million, one of the early major successes.
Consistent top results in esports — CS:GO, Dota 2, Valorant.

NAVI remains one of the most recognizable esports teams with the highest prize money in history, continuing to develop the industry in the CIS and on the international stage.

6. Fnatic — European esports powerhouse

Fnatic is one of the most decorated organizations in esports history. Founded in the UK in 2004, the club quickly gained recognition for its stability and ability to adapt to new disciplines. The team achieved outstanding success in CS:GO, League of Legends, and Dota 2, regularly participating in major tournaments and earning significant rewards. Thanks to smart management, Fnatic has remained at the top for almost two decades.

Trophies and financial successes:

CS:GO: Fnatic — three-time world champion, dominating in this discipline from 2013 to 2015. Victories at ESL One Katowice 2015 and ESL One Cologne 2015 brought the organization the largest prizes in CS:GO.
League of Legends: 2011 Worlds champion. Fnatic was the first team to win the LoL world championship, laying the foundation for European region dominance.
Dota 2: Dota 2 Majors finalist, participating in The International, among the strongest teams in Asia.

7. FaZe Clan — stars of CS:GO and Call of Duty

FaZe Clan is not just another esports team with the highest prize money but a global brand that combines professional gaming, creative content, and investments. Founded in 2010, the club quickly became an industry flagship, attracting millions of fans. FaZe Clan demonstrates a unique approach, combining esports and media content, making it one of the most influential teams on the global stage.

Key achievements and earnings:

CS:GO: Victory at PGL Major Antwerp 2022 — the team’s biggest success, bringing $500,000 in prize money. FaZe Clan dominates in top tournaments, consistently ranking among the best teams in the world.
Call of Duty: FaZe Clan — a major player in the Call of Duty League, regularly winning championships and earning multimillion-dollar prizes.
Total earnings: over the past five years, FaZe Clan has earned millions of dollars, becoming one of the most profitable organizations in esports.

The club continues to develop its rosters and strengthen its media presence, attracting sponsors and top players.

8. Team Secret — kings of Dota 2 Majors

Team Secret is one of the most respected teams in Dota 2, establishing itself as a dominant force in the professional scene. Founded in 2014, the organization has repeatedly proven itself as a top-tier club, winning major tournaments and collecting impressive rewards. Team Secret is consistently among the favorites in major tournaments, setting new standards in Dota 2.

Financial successes:

Prize money — over $17 million, making Team Secret one of the most successful teams in Dota 2 history.
The International 2020 finalist — one of the most memorable tournaments, bringing the team millions in prize money.
Domination in Europe — Team Secret consistently holds top positions on the global stage.

One of the popular esports teams with the highest prize money continues to be a significant player on the global stage, participating in major tournaments and strengthening its position in the industry.

9. Virtus.pro (VP) — CIS powerhouse

Virtus.pro is one of the most decorated CIS clubs, repeatedly demonstrating outstanding results in CS:GO and Dota 2. Founded in 2003, the organization has built a strong esports foundation and attracted the best players in the region.

Key victories:

Dota 2: Championship at The Kuala Lumpur Major 2018 — one of VP’s major successes, solidifying the team’s position in the global elite.
CS:GO: VP has repeatedly secured top spots in major tournaments, showcasing the stability and strength of CIS esports.
Total prize pool — $16+ million, making VP one of the most profitable organizations in the region.

10. Paris Saint-Germain Esports — European giant

PSG Esports is a project that combines traditional sports and esports. Founded by the football club Paris Saint-Germain, the esports division quickly gained popularity and entered the global elite. The organization focused on partnerships with top teams, allowing it to establish itself in the arena.