HLTV Awards 2025: sh1ro, m0NESY, and ZywOo Compete for CS2 AWPer of the Year

The race for the HLTV Awards 2025 AWPer of the Year title is officially down to three elite snipers: sh1ro, m0NESY, and ZywOo.
The winner will be announced at the HLTV Awards ceremony on January 10, 2026, in Belgrade.

This shortlist confirms what fans and analysts have debated all season: the AWPer role in CS2 is defined by three very different, but equally dominant, playstyles.

Top Contenders for CS2 AWPer of the Year

1. ZywOo — The Trophy-Fueled Favorite

Representing Team Vitality, ZywOo once again delivered a season backed by both individual statistics and team success. Multiple MVP awards, Major victories, and consistently elite ratings throughout 2025 place him among the strongest favorites.

ZywOo himself emphasized Vitality’s confidence during their peak form, stating that when the team plays to its level, they are nearly unbeatable.

2. m0NESY — Explosive Impact on the Biggest Stages

Now playing for Team Falcons, m0NESY remains the most explosive AWPer in the world. His aggressive mechanics, opening duels, and highlight-worthy clutches defined his 2025 campaign.

Despite adapting to roster changes, m0NESY stayed among the top-rated players at premier events, reinforcing his reputation as a high-ceiling superstar.

3. sh1ro — The Definition of Consistency

As the primary AWPer for Team Spirit, sh1ro built his case on round-to-round consistency and survivability. Known as one of the hardest players to eliminate in late-round situations, sh1ro’s calm, calculated style made him a cornerstone of Spirit’s success in 2025.

Rather than relying on flashy moments, sh1ro excelled through efficiency, positioning, and decision-making — qualities highly valued by HLTV’s voting panel.

How the HLTV AWPer of the Year Is Decided

The HLTV Awards finalists are selected by a panel of players, coaches, broadcast talent, and HLTV staff. The voting process combines individual statistics, impact at top-tier tournaments, and overall contribution to team success.

Before narrowing the list to three, HLTV released a broader pool of AWPer nominees, underlining the depth of competition in CS2’s sniper role.

Final Thoughts

Whether the award goes to ZywOo’s trophy-filled dominance, m0NESY’s raw firepower, or sh1ro’s unmatched consistency, the AWPer of the Year 2025 discussion highlights how competitive and diverse the CS2 elite scene has become.

The final verdict will be revealed on January 10, 2026, closing one of the most competitive individual award races in modern Counter-Strike.