The Counter-Strike 2 community has been voicing frustration over Valve’s handling of esports recognition after it was revealed that The International 2024 winners in Dota 2 received exclusive championship rings.
While Dota’s champions were celebrated with these prestigious rewards, CS2 Major winners have yet to receive any comparable acknowledgment, leaving many to wonder why one scene is celebrated more than the other. This disparity has quickly become a hot topic across social media, where fans and pros alike are openly questioning Valve’s priorities.
Many feel that Dota 2 is being given premium treatment, while the CS2 scene, one of the most historic and influential in competitive gaming, continues to be overlooked. The ongoing debate highlights a growing demand within the community for equal recognition and respect for CS2 champions, ensuring their accomplishments are honored on the same stage as their Dota counterparts.
When Team Liquid received their championship rings from Valve at The International 2025, the moment sparked more than just celebration. For many in the Counter-Strike 2 community, it highlighted an ongoing frustration. While Dota 2 champions are honored with custom rings that symbolize their legacy, CS2 Major winners still walk away with only a trophy. The contrast is hard to ignore, especially when both games boast massive prize pools and global audiences.
The conversation quickly spread when CS2 professionals began publicly questioning the disparity. For them, the issue runs deeper than a piece of jewelry; it reflects what many see as Valve’s favoritism toward Dota 2, while their historic competitive shooter feels increasingly sidelined. Since CS2’s launch in September 2023, players have repeatedly voiced concerns about performance issues, missing features, and ignored feedback. The ring debate has only added fuel to the fire.
For players who grind their way to the top of a Major, recognition matters. Rings are more than mere souvenirs. They’re symbols of years of dedication, an acknowledgment of what it takes to compete at the highest level. Watching Dota 2 champions receive that recognition while CS2 pros are overlooked has created a sense of neglect within the community.
As the backlash continues, the debate has become less about rings and more about how Valve values its competitive ecosystems. The company’s response, or silence, will shape community trust going forward. Until then, CS2 players and fans are left asking whether their champions will ever receive the same level of respect that Dota 2 players enjoy.
