As the playoffs of the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024 approach, the battle for the tournament MVP intensifies. The best players of the whole year made it to the top 8 of the final event, which makes the battle for the victory even more exciting. Let’s see who are the main MVP contenders at the Shanghai Major.

The Playoffs Stage

The top eight teams are ready to fight for the championship title and a massive $500,000 prize. The quarterfinals promise intense battles between some of the best teams in the world. The action kicks off with The MongolZ facing MOUZ, followed by Spirit taking on Liquid. On December 13, G2 will clash with HEROIC, while Vitality meets FaZe in what promises to be a fierce showdown. These matchups will determine which teams advance to the semifinals, keeping their championship hopes alive. With so much at stake, individual performances could decide the fate of these teams—and crown the tournament’s MVP.

READ MORE: Who Will Be the Champion of Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024? — Playoff Stage Preview

NiKo (G2, Rating: 7.1)

For Nikola "NiKo" Kovač, the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024 is more than just another tournament—it’s his last event with G2 before joining Falcons. Winning the Major and securing the MVP award would be the perfect way to close this chapter of his career.

Despite not being in the running for the top-1 player of 2024, NiKo has performed consistently well throughout the year. His form in Shanghai has been outstanding, with several key rounds and matches driven by his firepower. Also his ability to clutch must be mentioned: the Bosnian closed one 1v2 round and four 1v1s, being one of the best clutchers at the Major. Facing HEROIC in the quarterfinals, NiKo has a strong chance to lead G2 deep into the playoffs and claim his first MVP award of the year.

donk (Spirit, Rating: 7.7)

Danil "donk" Kryshkovets has been one of the brightest stars of the Major. After making a name for himself with an incredible performance at IEM Katowice 2024, he continued to be a consistent force for Spirit. Despite his team’s occasional struggles, donk has maintained a high level of play.

With a 7.7 rating—the highest of the Elimination Stage—donk has carried Spirit through tough matches. His mechanical skill and clutch performances have kept Spirit in the tournament, making him a frontrunner for the MVP award. Just pay attention to the absurd 105 ADR at the event, the rest of the players are not even close. Also he made the most spectacular highlight of the whole Major when won 1v5 versus HEROIC. If Spirit wins the Major, there’s little doubt that donk will be named the event’s best player.

Senzu (The MongolZ, Rating: 6.8)

Azbayar "Senzu" Munkhbold has been the breakout star of the Major. The young Mongolian player has played a pivotal role in The MongolZ’s historic run, helping them achieve a perfect 3-0 record in both the Opening and Elimination Stages. This achievement has made them the first Asian team to reach the playoffs in years.

Senzu ranks fifth in player ratings despite facing elite opponents like G2, MOUZ, and HEROIC. His consistent fragging, strong map control and especially aim (71.1% of headshots) have turned The MongolZ into true contenders. Although their playoff path is difficult, Senzu’s performance has already left a mark on the tournament.

m0NESY (G2, Rating: 7.0)

At just 19 years old, Ilya "m0NESY" Osipov has become the defining star of G2 in 2024. His mastery of the AWP and his ability to win high-pressure duels have been critical in G2’s Major campaign.

Throughout the Elimination Stage, m0NESY consistently delivered strong performances. His firepower will be crucial in the playoffs, especially as G2 looks to capitalize on NiKo’s final tournament with the team. If G2 goes all the way, m0NESY could secure the MVP title alongside a Major victory. As the best sniper in 2024 he continues to deliver incredible performances with the AWP: 0.337 AWP kills per round.

READ MORE: Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024 Playoffs: Talents' Pick'em Predictions

ZywOo (Vitality, Rating: 7.4)

Mathieu "ZywOo" Herbaut has been one of the best players at the Major, helping Vitality win key matches with his great aim and smart plays. His ability to stay calm and clutch important rounds has been crucial for the team.

Even though Vitality had some ups and downs this year, ZywOo remained one of the top players. With a 7.4 rating and good playoff chances, he could win his second Major title and another MVP award if Vitality continues playing well. He is also one of the best players by the opening duels performance: 0.169 opening kills per round, 0,060 ODPR and 0.169 trades.

These players are the ones who will make the playoffs stage as amazing as possible. The whole year they have been waiting for the final moment to show their excellence and lead their teams to the biggest victory possible in Counter-Strike.