Oleksandr "s1mple" Kostyliev the Ukranian player is one of Counter-Strike’s greatest players, a name that strikes fear into opponents and inspires teammates. Known for his incredible skill, clutch ability, and game-changing plays, s1mple has spent years at the top of the scene. But despite being the best AWPer, a complete player who could win 1v5s, and the most reliable star in tough moments, one achievement kept escaping him: a Major trophy.

The Rise of a CS:GO Icon S1mple: The Best Player in CSGO?

s1mple’s career wasn’t always smooth. Early on, he was as famous for his raw talent as he was for his difficult attitude. He had all the skill in the world, but his temper and struggles with communication held him back. His first big break came in 2016 with Team Liquid, where he played alongside Jonathan "EliGE" Jablonowski. Though he showed flashes of brilliance, his time in North America was short-lived.

Returning to Europe, s1mple found his true home in NAVI (2016-2024). Here, he transformed from a talented but inconsistent player into the best in the world. He worked on his mentality, improved his teamwork, and became not just a star, but a leader. His evolution was clear—no longer just a fragger, but a player who could control entire matches.

A S1mple Major Dream

Even with multiple #1 HLTV rankings, MVP awards, and legendary plays, the CS:GO Major trophy stayed just out of reach. NAVI came close many times, but victory always slipped away. Then in 2021 he won his long-awaited major title for PGL Major Stockholm 2021, S1mple is now a major title winner.

In 2024, after nearly a decade with NAVI, s1mple stepped away, taking a break from competition and most players don't recover well after this sort of a break.

A brief spell with Falcons followed, but it wasn’t the right fit. His hunger for the game never faded—and when Faze Clan offered him a spot, he saw his chance. Now, reunited with EliGE and joining forces with karrigan, frozen, and rain ( replaced with skullz), s1mple has one clear goal: win the Austin Major.

Faze’s recent 2nd-place finish at the Shanghai Major—where donk dominated and made a name for himself—only made them more determined. This time, s1mple isn’t just playing for himself; he’s playing to prove he’s still the best. And the team he wants to beat most? Team Vitality, the current favorites backed with Zyw0o's firepower

S1mple; A Legacy Cemented in Counter Strike History

1 to his name number 1 in the game!

S1mple's impact on Counter-Strike is undeniable. One of his most iconic moments came on Cache, where his mid-air no-scope against fnatic in a 1v2 clutch earned him a permanent graffiti on the map—a rare honor reserved for only the most legendary plays.

From a young, fiery talent to the face of NAVI, and now the new hope for Faze, s1mple’s journey has been unforgettable. Even if he doesn’t win in Austin, his place in CS history is secure.

Two Major titles? Maybe. The greatest of all time? Many already say so.

What’s next for s1mple? Whatever it is, one thing is certain—he’s not done yet.

Faze S1mple confirmed!