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What is the highest prize pool in eSports?

Published in eSports Prize Pools 2 mins read

The highest prize pool in eSports history was over $40 million U.S. dollars, achieved by The International 2021.

The Record-Breaking eSports Prize Pool

The largest prize pool ever recorded in eSports belongs to The International 2021, a tournament for the popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game, Dota 2. This monumental event offered a staggering total prize pool of over 40 million U.S. dollars. As of December 2024, this particular iteration of The International continues to hold the record for the highest prize pool in the history of competitive gaming.

The International is an annual championship that brings together the best Dota 2 teams from around the world. While the tournament typically features immense prize pools, the 2021 edition set a new benchmark, captivating audiences and players alike with its unprecedented financial scale.

Key Details of the Highest eSports Prize Pool

To provide a clear overview, here are the core details of the record-setting event:

Tournament Name Game Year Prize Pool (USD)
The International 2021 Dota 2 2021 Over $40,000,000

The Legacy of The International

The International's ability to consistently generate such substantial prize pools is often attributed to its unique crowdfunding model, where a significant portion of the prize money is contributed by the game's community through in-game purchases. This model allows the prize pool to grow far beyond initial contributions, reflecting the immense dedication and support of the Dota 2 player base.

Even with newer editions of the tournament, such as the one that took place in Denmark in September 2024, The International 2021 remains the unparalleled leader in terms of prize money offered, solidifying its place in eSports history. This record highlights the massive financial growth and global appeal of competitive gaming.