League of Legends remains one of the most profitable games in esports, yet its approach to rewards is significantly different from Dota 2. While the World Championship once boasted prize pools reaching $6.45 million, today the focus has shifted to stable salaries and long-term contracts, although large prize pools are set to return in 2025.
Faker is Still Unmatched
Faker remains the undisputed leader among the highest-earning players in League of Legends history, earning over $1.92 million. Most of this money was earned during the legendary performances of the SKT T1 team (now T1), as they secured victories at the World Championship in 2013, 2015, 2016, 2023, 2024, and 2025. These triumphs not only defined Lee Sang-hyeok's career but also cemented T1's status as the most successful organization in the game's history.
Back then, prize pools were significantly higher. In 2018, the World Championship prize pool reached a record $6.45 million. However, the situation changed. Since 2019, the base prize pool for Worlds has stabilized at $2.225 million, although for 2025, Riot Games announced an increase to a base sum of $5 million. It is expected that with the sale of champion skins, the total pool will reach $8-9 million.
Top 10 League of Legends Players by Prize Earnings
As of publication, the top ten highest-earning players are as follows:
It's no surprise that T1 players dominate this list. While T1 secured legendary status with five World Championship victories, other teams like Gen.G and Chinese teams have also consistently performed at a high level. Besides triumphs at Worlds, T1 has won numerous MSI tournaments and regional championships, further strengthening their financial and competitive legacy.
The Most Profitable Organization in League of Legends
In terms of pure earnings, no team can match T1. Over 517 tournaments, the organization has earned over $15.7 million in prize money. Their five World Championship victories remain the pinnacle of achievements:
- Worlds 2013: first historic victory — $50,000
- Worlds 2015: return to the top — $1,000,000
- Worlds 2016: continued dominance — $2,028,000
- Worlds 2023: return after a seven-year hiatus — $445,000
- Worlds 2024: title defense — $445,000
- Worlds 2025: historic third consecutive victory — $1,000,000
However, T1's dominance began long before global recognition. The team also won numerous Mid-Season Invitational tournaments and LCK regional championships, setting the standard for stability and elite-level play.
How Much Do League of Legends Professionals Earn Today?
Prize money grabs attention, but for most players, it's the salaries and additional income that make a career sustainable:
European players (LEC) earn an average of €240,000 per year, which is 11% less than in 2024.
Rookies earn approximately €115,000 annually, while top players like Caps can earn over €400,000 per year. Korean players in the LEC earn an average of €160,000 annually.
Additional income comes from streaming, sponsorship contracts, merchandise sales, and World Championship winner skins. Faker, for example, has a net worth of about $10 million thanks to his T1 salary ($6 million annually), stake in the organization, streaming, and sponsorship deals.
The Scene Evolves, but Opportunities Remain Real
League of Legends still remains one of the most stable and rewarding disciplines in esports. Unlike Dota 2, where players rely on major tournament wins, LoL offers guaranteed salaries even at the regional level.
Top players remain in the spotlight, organizations continue to invest in long-term contracts, and the career path is still viable. Riot Games sets minimum salary standards for professional leagues, ensuring financial stability even for lower-tier players.
Success today is not just about tournament victories—it's about stable income, media activities, and a long-term career strategy. League of Legends is evolving towards greater financial stability, and with this, the paths to professional success are changing.
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