As one of the pillars of eSports, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) has been the stage for some of the most iconic figures in the world of video games.
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As one of the pillars of eSports, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) has been the stage for some of the most iconic figures in the world of video games. From the early days of Valve’s FPS to the release of Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) in 2023, this title has demanded a combination of skill, strategy, concentration, and coordination to stand out in its demanding competitive scene. Many of these events can be followed in detail through the eSports section of Apuestaes.net, a space that covers the most relevant competitions and the performance of the big stars. Among them, Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut stands out, an undisputed reference in Counter-Strike.
Since joining Team Vitality in October 2018, ZywOo has established himself as one of the most dominant figures in the competitive CS:GO scene. His transition from CS:GO to CS2 has been meteoric and filled with successes. Under his leadership, Vitality has conquered major tournaments like the BLAST Paris Major 2023, the IEM Cologne 2024, and the IEM Katowice 2025, and they already have their sights set on the IEM Cologne 2025, which will take place from July 23 to August 3. Additionally, he has become the player with the most MVP awards from HLTV, with a total of 22.
A Generational Talent
ZywOo was born on November 9, 2000, in Lens, France, the same day the first version of Counter-Strike was released, earning him the nickname “The Chosen One”. At just 7 years old, he began playing Valve’s title, influenced by his brother and cousin, who would gather to play at a cybercafe. Two years later, at just 9 years old, he made his debut in his first LAN at a small local tournament in his city. At 16, the French prodigy made the leap to the semi-professional scene by joining teams like Nevermind, E-Corp Bumpers, WySix, and against All authority (aAa), where he accumulated experience and recognition. In 2018, just shy of turning 18, he joined Team Vitality, quickly becoming a key piece of the French team.
Unlike many professionals who emerge gradually, ZywOo’s rise was meteoric. His exceptional accuracy, innovative playing style, consistency, and adaptability soon caught the attention of the community. When he signed with Vitality in 2018, the expectations surrounding him were undeniable. Expectations he more than met, as in his debut year he was awarded the best CS:GO player of 2019 by HLTV.org, becoming the youngest to achieve this at just 19 years old. In a competitive scene dominated by legendary names like s1mple and dev1ce, ZywOo emerged as the first French player in years to challenge that hegemony.
The transition from CS:GO to CS2 was a test for many players, as it introduced new mechanics that directly affected the development of matches. However, ZywOo adapted perfectly and continued to lead Team Vitality in the new competitive environment. His ability to perform under pressure, adapt to changes in the metagame, and elevate his team in key moments, combined with his mechanical skill, allowed him to remain at the top and continue dominating, demonstrating that his success is not tied to a specific version of the game, but to his natural talent and work ethic.
Representing France in CS2
France has historically stood out in the competitive CS:GO landscape. From the early days of Valve’s title, French players have competed at the top for over a decade, and their teams have achieved some of the most prestigious trophies. However, the French scene has faced significant difficulties in recent years, mainly due to a notable drought of new talent. Since the decline of figures like Richard “shox” Papillon, Kenny “kennyS” Schrub, and Cédric “RpK” Guipouy, who are retired or have passed their prime, ZywOo has become the main reference for French Counter-Strike, and he carries the pressure of representing the entire French community on his shoulders.
ZywOo represents the renewed hope of a country that once reigned in CS:GO. Accompanied by Dan “apEX” Madesclaire and Robin “ropz” Kool, and backed by Team Vitality, the young French prodigy has led his team to numerous victories. With dazzling performances, historic records, and the unconditional love of fans, ZywOo has established himself as a key figure in the competitive scene. At just 24 years old, his legacy is still being written, and everything points to him being one of the great dominators of CS2 in the coming years. Whether accumulating MVPs, conquering more Majors, or forging his place as the best of all time, ZywOo’s future promises to be legendary.
