Dota 2 remains one of esports’ most lucrative games. The International once handed out the biggest prize pools in the industry, but things have changed in recent years. While the all-time earnings leaderboard hasn’t shifted much, the pace at which pros rack up major winnings is clearly slowing down. So, who are the top ten earners in Dota 2 history, and how much do today’s stars actually take home?
N0tail Still Leads the Pack
N0tail remains the most decorated player in Dota 2 history, with over $7.1 million in prize winnings. Most of that came during OG’s legendary run, when the team secured back-to-back victories at The International in 2018 and 2019. Those wins not only defined Johan Sundstein’s career but also etched OG’s name into esports history.
Back then, prize pools were soaring. In 2019 had a record-breaking pot of over $34 million. But the landscape has shifted. The most recent International, TI13 in 2024, featured a total prize pool of just $2.77 million — the lowest in over a decade. The winning team walked away with $1.2 million. By contrast, TI11 in 2022 was the last to offer a major sum: $18.93 million overall.
Top 10 Dota 2 Players by Prize Money Earned
It’s no surprise OG and Team Spirit dominate the list. Their championship runs at TI left a lasting financial and competitive legacy.
Dota 2 Most Profitable Organization
In terms of raw earnings, no team touches OG. Across 94 tournaments, the organization has claimed over $37 million in prize money. Their two TI titles remain the crown jewels:
- TI8 (2018): defeated PSG.LGD — $11.2 million
- TI9 (2019): historic back-to-back win — $15.6 million
But OG’s dominance began well before their TI run. The team also won four Valve Majors during the early days of the Dota Pro Circuit, setting the standard for consistency and elite-level performance:
- The Frankfurt Major 2015
- The Manila Major 2016
- The Boston Major 2016
- The Kiev Major 2017
OG’s mix of fearless drafting, team chemistry, and big-game resilience made them the face of a golden era in Dota 2. These victories across both Majors and Internationals firmly cemented their legacy as the most successful organization in the game’s history.
The International 2018
The International 2019
The Frankfurt Major 2015
The Manila Major 2016
The Boston Major 2016
The Kiev Major 2017
How Much Do Dota 2 Pros Make Today?
Prize money grabs the headlines, but for most players, salaries and side income are what keep things sustainable:
- Mid-tier players earn between $5,000–$6,000 per month
- Top-tier players can command $10,000+ monthly salaries
- Additional income comes from streaming, sponsorships, merchandise, and social media deals
With prize pools shrinking, teams and players alike are leaning more on consistent contracts and media presence to keep their careers viable.
The Scene Is Changing, But the Opportunities Are Still Real
Dota 2 may no longer offer jaw-dropping prize pools at every turn, but it's still one of the most competitive and rewarding esports in the world. The top players remain in the spotlight, organizations continue to invest, and the career path is as viable as ever.
Success today is about more than tournament wins — it’s about visibility, adaptability, and long-term strategy. Dota 2 is evolving, and so are the ways to reach the top. Those who adapt — win.
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