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Icons Who Changed the Game
DOTA 2 is one of the most competitive and strategic esports titles in the world, has produced legends whose names are etched in gaming history. These players didn’t just win games—they redefined how the game is played, inspired millions, and built legacies through clutch plays, innovation, and leadership.
In this article, we count down the Top 10 most amazing players in Dota 2 history, based on tournament success, mechanical skill, impact on the meta, and legacy. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or a newcomer to the Dota scene, these names deserve your attention.
1. Johan “N0tail” Sundstein
Role: Support / Captain
Team: OG (retired)
Notable Achievements:
- Two-time The International (TI) winner (2018, 2019)
- Highest-earning Dota 2 player of all time
- Renowned for his leadership and strategic depth
N0tail is the most decorated player in Dota 2 history, not only for his earnings but for how he led OG through an unprecedented back-to-back TI victory. His understanding of team dynamics and drafting made him an elite captain and mentor.
2. Kuro “KuroKy” Salehi Takhasomi
Role: Support / Captain
Team: Nigma Galaxy
Notable Achievements:
- Winner of The International 2017 with Team Liquid
- First player to reach 1,000 professional wins
- Participated in every TI from TI1 to TI10
KuroKy is a pillar of Dota 2 longevity. As a captain and drafter, he has remained relevant across metas and patches. His leadership at TI7 is still considered one of the most disciplined runs in TI history.
3. Amer “Miracle-” Al-Barkawi
Role: Mid / Carry
Team: Nigma Galaxy
Notable Achievements:
- First player to reach 9,000 MMR
- TI7 champion
- Known for jaw-dropping mechanical plays
Miracle- redefined midlane dominance. His highlight reels are legendary, and his clutch performances in high-pressure games have earned him a reputation as one of the most mechanically gifted players of all time.
4. Clement “Puppey” Ivanov
Role: Captain / Support
Team: Team Secret
Notable Achievements:
- TI1 winner with Natus Vincere
- Founder of Team Secret
- Most consistent TI performer
Puppey is a living legend, still competing at the highest level over a decade later. Known for his versatility and drafting, Puppey’s teams are always in the discussion for major titles.
5. Danil “Dendi” Ishutin
Role: Mid
Team: Natus Vincere (legacy)
Notable Achievements:
- TI1 champion
- TI2 and TI3 finalist
- One of the most beloved players in Dota 2 history
Dendi brought flair and personality to the pro scene. From his Pudge Fountain Hook to his iconic smile, he helped put Dota 2 on the map for a global audience.
6. Sébastien “Ceb” Debs
Role: Offlane
Team: OG (retired)
Notable Achievements:
- Two-time TI winner (2018, 2019)
- Inspirational leader and motivator
- Known for the legendary “Ceeeeeeeeeb!” Echo Slam play
Ceb’s return from coaching to playing and leading OG to two TI wins is a storybook arc. His passion, resilience, and understanding of the game made him a force both on and off the stage.
7. Xu “fy” Linsen
Role: Support
Team: PSG.LGD (legacy)
Notable Achievements:
- Multiple TI appearances, including TI8 finals
- Known as the “God of Position 4”
fy is considered one of the best support players in the game’s history. His high-skill plays on heroes like Rubick and Earthshaker remain unmatched, and his calm under pressure made him a staple in Chinese Dota.
8. Artour “Arteezy” Babaev
Role: Carry
Team: Shopify Rebellion (formerly Evil Geniuses)
Notable Achievements:
- Consistent performer at international events
- Massive Twitch and YouTube following
- Iconic plays and meme-worthy moments
While Arteezy has yet to win a TI, his impact on the Dota 2 scene as a streamer, pro, and personality is undeniable. He remains a fan favorite due to his flashy plays and emotional journey.
9. Sumail “SumaiL” Hassan
Role: Mid
Team: Nigma Galaxy
Notable Achievements:
- TI5 champion at age 16
- Youngest player to win The International
- One of the most aggressive mids in history
SumaiL exploded onto the scene with unmatched confidence and raw talent. His aggressive, fearless style helped EG win TI5 and reshaped how midlane was played in the years to follow.
10. Anathan “ana” Pham
Role: Carry
Team: OG (retired)
Notable Achievements:
- Two-time TI champion
- Known for ice-cold clutch performances
- Creator of the infamous “rat Dota” Spectre and Io carry meta
Ana’s unpredictable hero pool and calm under pressure made him the X-factor for OG. Despite long breaks between seasons, he returned each time with game-winning performances.
Honorable Mentions
- RAMZES666 – Young prodigy with incredible offlane and carry flexibility
- Notail – Worthy of multiple entries for his roles and leadership
- Topson – Two-time TI winner with unconventional builds and tactics
- Abed – First 10k MMR player from SEA, a midlane icon in the making
- Yatoro – TI10 breakout star with diverse hero mastery
Legends Live On
The history of Dota 2 esports is filled with unforgettable moments, legendary comebacks, and game-defining plays. The players listed above didn’t just win—they influenced metas, changed how roles are played, and inspired millions of fans and aspiring pros around the world.
Each of these athletes exemplifies what it means to be a true Dota 2 legend, proving that talent, teamwork, and timing can create moments of pure magic.
Who’s Your GOAT in Dota 2?
Do you agree with our list? Did your favorite player make the cut?
Drop a comment below to share your personal Top 10 and tell us what unforgettable play made you a fan. For more esports insights, player profiles, and tournament recaps, subscribe to our Dota 2 newsletter today and stay ahead of the meta.
The battle doesn’t end in the game. It lives on in history—and in the hearts of fans.