
The North American CS2 scene has seen a resurgence in 2024, with several players emerging as world-class talents capable of competing at the highest international level. After years of struggling to match the dominance of European and CIS regions, American players are finally making their mark on the global stage. In this article, we spotlight five exceptional American CS2 players who are redefining expectations and elevating the NA scene in 2024.
1. Jonathan "EliGE" Jablonowski
Age: 26
Team: Team Liquid
Role: Rifler
HLTV 2023 Ranking: #12
2024 Stats (so far):
- Rating: 1.21
- K/D Ratio: 1.28
- Headshot %: 54.7%
- Impact Rating: 1.31
EliGE remains the backbone of North American CS2, continuing to perform at an elite level while many of his contemporaries have moved on to other titles. His transition from CS:GO to CS2 has been seamless, with his rifling skills and game sense translating perfectly to the new game.
What sets EliGE apart in 2024 is his adaptability. While maintaining his aggressive playstyle, he's evolved into a more complete player who can anchor sites on CT side with the same effectiveness as his T-side entry capabilities. His utility usage has become increasingly sophisticated, often creating opportunities for teammates without directly engaging in firefights.
Team Liquid's resurgence in early 2024, including their semifinal appearance at the BLAST Premier Spring Finals, was largely driven by EliGE's consistent performance against top-tier international competition. His ability to read opponents and adjust mid-round continues to make him one of the most formidable players in clutch situations.
"The source 2 engine has actually improved aspects of my game. The increased clarity and updated movement mechanics allow for more precise utility usage and positioning. I feel like I'm seeing the game more clearly than ever." — EliGE in a post-match interview at IEM Dallas 2024
2. Russel "Twistzz" Van Dulken
Age: 24
Team: Team Liquid (returned from FaZe Clan)
Role: Rifler
HLTV 2023 Ranking: #15
2024 Stats (so far):
- Rating: 1.18
- K/D Ratio: 1.25
- Headshot %: 68.3%
- Impact Rating: 1.24
After a successful stint with FaZe Clan that included a Major championship, Twistzz's return to Team Liquid has reinvigorated both his career and the North American scene. His mechanical skill has always been world-class, but his time in Europe playing alongside some of the world's best has elevated his game sense and decision-making to new heights.
Twistzz's trademark headshot percentage remains among the highest in professional CS2, with his crisp aim and exceptional crosshair placement allowing him to win duels against even the most mechanically gifted opponents. What's particularly impressive in 2024 is how he's expanded his map pool, becoming equally effective on maps that were previously considered weaknesses.
The synergy between Twistzz and EliGE has been key to Team Liquid's success, with their complementary playstyles creating problems for opposing teams. While EliGE often creates space through aggression, Twistzz excels at trading kills and converting advantages into round wins.
"Coming back to NA was a personal choice, but also a competitive one. I want to help build something special here again. The talent is there, and I think we're starting to show that North American CS2 can compete at the highest level." — Twistzz at ESL Pro League Season 21
3. Paytyn "junior" Johnson
Age: 23
Team: Complexity Gaming
Role: AWPer
HLTV 2023 Ranking: Not Ranked (Breakthrough 2024)
2024 Stats (so far):
- Rating: 1.24
- K/D Ratio: 1.31
- AWP Kills Per Round: 0.45
- Impact Rating: 1.36
Junior has been the biggest revelation in North American CS2 this year. After struggling to find consistency earlier in his career with FURIA and Complexity, the transition to CS2 has transformed him into one of the most dangerous AWPers in the scene. His aggressive style and confident decision-making have drawn comparisons to prime kennyS.
What makes junior's rise particularly impressive is how he's managed to overcome previous mental barriers. Where he once seemed hesitant in high-pressure situations, he now thrives in them, often securing crucial opening picks that set the tone for rounds. His ability to find unusual angles and take unexpected peeks has made him incredibly difficult to counter.
Complexity's improvement as a team correlates directly with junior's ascension. His prowess with the AWP has allowed the team to build their strategy around securing advantageous positions for him, and his increased confidence has translated into more assertive mid-round calling when needed.
"The switch to CS2 was perfect timing for me. I went back to basics, rebuilt my approach to the game, and focused on playing my natural style rather than trying to fit a predetermined mold. The results speak for themselves." — junior after Complexity's upset win over Vitality
4. Ricky "floppy" Kemery
Age: 24
Team: Cloud9
Role: Rifler/Secondary AWP
HLTV 2023 Ranking: #32
2024 Stats (so far):
- Rating: 1.17
- K/D Ratio: 1.22
- Headshot %: 52.1%
- Impact Rating: 1.29
Floppy's return to CS2 after a brief stint in VALORANT has been nothing short of spectacular. As part of Cloud9's revitalized North American roster, he's emerged as a versatile star capable of excelling with both rifles and the AWP. His fluid playstyle allows him to adapt to any situation, making him an unpredictable threat for opponents.
What's particularly impressive about floppy in 2024 is his clutch performance. His 1vX statistics rank among the best in the professional scene, with an uncanny ability to remain calm under pressure and make optimal decisions in post-plant situations. His understanding of timing and rotations has become a masterclass in intelligent CS2 play.
Cloud9's system allows floppy to showcase his full potential, with the team often setting him up in advantageous positions where his multi-kill potential can shine. His synergy with IGL Jakub "kuben" Gurczyński has been particularly notable, with the experienced coach helping to refine floppy's natural talents into a more disciplined approach.
"Taking time away from Counter-Strike actually helped me see the game differently. I came back with fresh perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the fundamentals. CS2 feels like the perfect game for my playstyle." — floppy in Cloud9's team documentary
5. Josh "oSee" Ohm
Age: 24
Team: Team Liquid
Role: AWPer
HLTV 2023 Ranking: Not Ranked
2024 Stats (so far):
- Rating: 1.16
- K/D Ratio: 1.19
- AWP Kills Per Round: 0.41
- Impact Rating: 1.21
After a challenging 2023 that saw inconsistent performances and questions about his future at the top level, oSee has experienced a remarkable renaissance in CS2. His renewed confidence with the AWP has transformed him from a liability into a cornerstone of Team Liquid's success.
The key to oSee's turnaround has been his more aggressive approach to holding angles and taking early duels. Where he previously seemed hesitant to make plays, he now confidently creates openings for his team, particularly on the CT side. His improved positioning has also reduced his vulnerability to being traded after initial kills.
Working alongside veterans like EliGE and Twistzz has clearly accelerated oSee's development. The structured environment provided by coach Damian "daps" Steele has helped him refine his decision-making process, resulting in fewer unnecessary risks while maintaining his playmaking potential.
"Last year was tough mentally, but it forced me to reevaluate my approach to the game. CS2 gave me a fresh start, and I've been working closely with daps to identify and eliminate weaknesses in my gameplay. I feel like I'm finally showing what I'm truly capable of." — oSee after Team Liquid's qualification for the Major
Honorable Mentions
Michael "Swisher" Schmid
The 22-year-old rifler for Complexity has shown flashes of brilliance in 2024, particularly in clutch situations. His exceptional spray control and positional awareness make him a player to watch as he gains more experience against international competition.
Timothy "autimatic" Ta
The veteran continues to deliver consistent performances for Evil Geniuses, bringing stability and experience to a relatively young roster. His versatility across multiple roles has been crucial for the team's tactical flexibility.
Justin "FaNg" Coakley
As part of Complexity's core, FaNg has developed into a reliable support player with occasional star performances. His selfless playstyle creates space for teammates while his clutch potential makes him dangerous in late-round scenarios.
The Future of North American CS2
The resurgence of these players signals a potential renaissance for North American CS2. After years of talent drainage to VALORANT and underwhelming international results, the region appears to be rebuilding with a stronger foundation than before.
Several factors have contributed to this revival:
- Improved Infrastructure: Organizations like Team Liquid and Complexity have invested heavily in coaching staff, analysts, and training facilities specifically designed for CS2.
- Return of Veterans: Players like Twistzz bringing back experience gained from European competition has elevated the overall level of play.
- CS2's Fresh Start: The transition to a new game has leveled the playing field somewhat, allowing NA players to adapt alongside their European counterparts rather than trying to catch up.
- Renewed Organizational Interest: Major esports organizations are reinvesting in CS2 rosters after seeing the game's successful launch and continued popularity.
The most encouraging sign for North American CS2 is the development pipeline that's beginning to form. Beyond the established stars, younger players are emerging through platforms like FACEIT Pro League North America and collegiate esports programs. This suggests that the current wave of talent may be sustainable rather than a temporary resurgence.
Conclusion
The five players highlighted in this article represent the spearhead of North American CS2's competitive revival. Their performances throughout 2024 have not only earned them individual recognition but have also helped restore international respect for the region as a whole.
As we look toward the second half of 2024, including the upcoming Major Championship, these players will be crucial in determining whether North America can truly reclaim its place among the elite CS2 regions. Their continued development and success could inspire the next generation of American players and strengthen the competitive ecosystem for years to come.
The battle for global CS2 supremacy remains dominated by European and CIS powerhouses, but for the first time in years, North American players are making a compelling case that they belong in the conversation. The five stars highlighted here are leading that charge, rewriting the narrative around American Counter-Strike one tournament at a time.