The Esports World Cup 2025 is off to a thrilling start, bringing top gaming talent from around the world to one stage. This tournament isn’t just about big prize money it’s also where legends are made, rivalries are born, and champions prove their worth.
While every player competing is at the top of their game, a few names are standing out early in the tournament. Some are defending champions, some are surprising new faces, and some are rewriting their legacy with every match.
Here’s a look at the most exciting players to watch during Week 1 of the Esports World Cup 2025.
Crystallis: Dota 2 (Tundra Esports)
Remco “Crystallis” Arets is proving that hard work and patience pay off. Known for being a talented but sometimes criticized player during his time with Team Secret, Crystallis has made a strong comeback with Tundra Esports.
Tundra has consistently ranked high in tournaments this year, but often gets overlooked due to the popularity of teams like Team Spirit and PARIVISION. Now, Crystallis is focused on proving the doubters wrong by leading his team to the top at EWC 2025.
Chronicle: VALORANT (Fnatic)
Timofey “Chronicle” Khromov might be one of the most successful players in VALORANT history, but he rarely gets the spotlight. He has already won three international VALORANT titles a feat only a few players can claim.
Now playing with Fnatic, Chronicle started strong at EWC 2025 with an MVP-level performance. This could finally be the tournament where he gets the full credit he deserves and cements his name as one of VALORANT’s all-time greats.
Uxako: Apex Legends (Natus Vincere)
Jose “Uxako” Llosa and his team have flown under the radar for some time, but that’s quickly changing. Once part of GoNext Esports, Uxako now plays for NAVI, and they are already showing strong results in Apex Legends.
While big names like Alliance and Team Falcons usually take the spotlight, NAVI is a team that stays consistent and performs well under pressure. Uxako himself is known for his smart plays, match-winning moments, and staying calm when the stakes are high.
Xiao Hai: Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves (KauiShou Gaming)
Zeng “Xiao Hai” Zhuojun is one of the few players trying to win EWC titles in two different games. After winning Street Fighter 6 last year at the Esports World Cup, he’s now competing in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves.
Already a winner of CEO 2025 and EVO Japan 2025 in Fatal Fury, Xiao Hai enters EWC 2025 as the clear favourite. But what makes his story more amazing is that his main game is not even Fatal Fury he’s one of the best King of Fighters players in the world. Now, he’s looking to make history with a second EWC gold.
