NiKo and GuardiaN, the Uncrowned Kings of Counter-Strike

CS:GO Majors - The biggest stage, the toughest competition, the ultimate prize. But for some of the greatest players, that Major trophy remains elusive. This is the story of two legends, Nikola "NiKo" Kovač and Ladislav "GuardiaN" Kovács, who came close but never quite reached the pinnacle. GuardiaN switched to the coach position in 2022. NiKo is still at the top of CS2 with G2 Esports. His next shot at the Major trophy will be in December at the Perfect World Shanghai CS2 Major 2024 if he manages to qualify.

According to rumors, NiKo is set to join Team Falcons after the Perfect World Major. In Shanghai, he might have the last chance to win the Major alongside his cousin Nemanja “huNter-” Kovač.

NiKo: The Nearly Man

His name is synonymous with Counter-Strike excellence. Incredible aim, clutch plays, and a career filled with MVP awards and tournament victories. But one thing's missing: a Major title.

He's been to 11 Majors, playing for top teams like MOUZ, FaZe, and G2. He's come close, oh so close. Renowned the best rifle in the game, maybe even of all time, he won practically every other individual and team trophy, except the Major. His story is similar to one of the Arteezy with Dota 2 The International. If there is an “Arteezy curse” in Dota 2, is there a “NiKo curse” in CS?

GuardiaN: The AWP Legend

The Slovakian sniper is one of the greatest AWPers to ever grace the game. Known for his incredible precision and game sense, he's a legend in his own right. But like NiKo, the Major title eluded him. 14 Majors, three grand final appearances, and three heartbreaks. During his time in NAVI and FaZe, he was constantly at the top of the scene with his unique AWP playstyle.

Interestingly enough, both GuardiaN and NiKo were closest to the Major trophy at the ELEAGUE Major 2018 in Boston. In the finals often regarded as one of the best Major finals of all time, under the FaZe Clan banners, they missed their chance. Cloud9 pulled an insane comeback to bring the deciding map Inferno to overtime in which they won 22-19. Instead of legends securing their legacy with the Major championship, Cloud9 became the first and only North American team to win the Major, and they did it in front of their own audience.

The Uncrowned Kings

Two giants of Counter-Strike, forever linked by their Major near misses. Their stories are a reminder that even the most talented players face setbacks, that sometimes, greatness isn't defined by a single trophy.

But their impact on the game is undeniable. They've inspired countless players with their skill, their dedication, and their passion for Counter-Strike. They may be the uncrowned kings, but they're legends nonetheless.