When talking about greatness in competitive Counter-Strike, the eternal question arises: what matters more — winning the most prestigious tournament or consistently dominating over a long period? Even Valve’s Majors haven’t always given a full picture. Gambit Esports’ story at PGL Major Kraków 2017 is a prime example: a triumphant but brief success. That’s why the concept of the Intel Grand Slam in CS2 was introduced in 2017 — an award designed to recognize truly legendary teams through consistent top-level victories.

Today, we’ll explain what the Intel Grand Slam is, who has won this trophy, and why it remains one of the most important achievements in the CS2 era.

What is the Intel Grand Slam?

The CS2 Intel Grand Slam is a special one-million-dollar prize awarded to a team that wins four major ESL or DreamHack tournaments within ten attempts. Victories must be consistent and demonstrate a high level of play over an extended period. If a team wins only once but then fails to deliver further results, they lose their chance at claiming the Intel Grand Slam.

This system motivates top teams to stay in peak form between Majors. Competing for the Intel Grand Slam isn’t just about the huge prize money — it’s also a mark of true greatness. For fans, it’s another exciting storyline to follow throughout the season. Who will reach the top? Who will prove their superiority?

All Intel Grand Slam Champions

Since the award’s launch in 2017, only five teams have managed to win the Intel Grand Slam. Here are their stories.

Astralis — the First Winners

The Danish team Astralis became the first holders of the CS2 Intel Grand Slam. In 2018, they were almost unbeatable, showcasing absolute dominance across all levels. Their era is remembered as the most successful in CS:GO history, and it’s fitting that Astralis were the first to bring home the million dollars and the golden bars.

Team Liquid

In 2019, the American team Team Liquid set a record by winning four tournaments and securing the Grand Slam in just 63 days. It’s important to note that during this period, Astralis participated less frequently in ESL and DreamHack events, allowing Liquid to take the initiative. After their triumph, the CS2 Grand Slam rules were tightened: now, one of the four required titles must be won at a Masters-level event.

Natus Vincere

After a long break caused by the pandemic, it was Natus Vincere’s time to shine in 2021. With the addition of b1t, the Ukrainian squad reached their full potential. Their accomplishments included victories at top tournaments, gold at PGL Major Stockholm 2021, and of course, the well-deserved Intel Grand Slam. For many fans, that Na'Vi roster became one of the greatest teams in CS history.

FaZe Clan

In 2022, FaZe Clan earned a well-deserved triumph, claiming the Intel Grand Slam amid fierce competition. Their winning streak was one of the most memorable in CS:GO history. Twistzz deserves special mention — he became the first player to win the Intel Grand Slam with two different teams, Team Liquid and FaZe, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players ever.

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Team Vitality — the Newest Champions

A new chapter was written in 2025: Team Vitality won the fifth season of the ESL Grand Slam, earning a million dollars. They clinched the victory after winning IEM Melbourne 2025. Over their ten-tournament stretch, Vitality triumphed at IEM Cologne 2024, IEM Katowice 2025, ESL Pro League Season 21, and finally sealed their Grand Slam at Melbourne.

Their journey to the Grand Slam proved once again: to make history, one outstanding performance isn’t enough — consistent excellence throughout the season is key.

The Intel Grand Slam CS2 is not just about the million dollars. It’s a symbol of consistency, strength, and absolute mastery at the highest level of competitive Counter-Strike. In seven years, only five teams have completed the journey, leaving their names forever etched in history.

With the transition to CS2, the prestige of the Intel Grand Slam has only grown. New champions will continue to fight for the title, and fans will keep watching to see who becomes the next great team in the world of Counter-Strike.

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