With the 2025 League of Legends (LoL) esports season heating up and the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) just around the corner, fans and analysts alike are debating one major question: who are the top players this year?
After the shake-ups from the First Stand event and surprising shifts in regional power, we’ve ranked the ten best LoL players heading into MSI.
While stats alone don’t tell the full story, each player here has been instrumental in shaping their team’s performance. This list is based on current impact, consistency, and their potential to carry games at the international level.
10. Caps – G2 Esports (LEC)
It’s been a while since a Western player featured on such a high-tier list, but Caps is no ordinary mid laner.
Despite Europe’s underwhelming showings in past Worlds, Caps stood out during the First Stand. His mechanical skill and game sense continue to make him the best chance the LEC has at international success.
9. Tarzan – Anyone’s Legend (LPL)
Tarzan has always been seen as a top-tier jungler, and 2025 is no different. Leading his team, Anyone’s Legend, through a competitive Split 1 in the LPL, he secured more MVP titles than anyone else. MSI could be his chance to prove himself as the world’s best finally.
8. JackeyLove – Top Esports (LPL)
Once feared globally, JackeyLove’s 2025 season got off to a slow start. After Top Esports’ disappointing First Stand run, many doubted his form.
But in Split 2, he’s come roaring back. If TES shows up at MSI, JackeyLove will be the one carrying them.
7. Viper – Hanwha Life Esports (LCK)
One of Korea’s most dependable ADCs, Viper remains a powerhouse in late-game teamfights.
His ability to turn games around and consistently outplay the enemy bottom lane makes him an essential pick. With a stronger HLE roster this year, Viper is aiming for global dominance.
6. Oner–T1 (LCK)
T1’s jungler, Oner, is the glue holding the squad together. Even when the team struggles, Oner’s map control and decision-making help keep them in the game.
While T1 hasn’t beaten Gen.G or HLE recently, Oner’s clutch plays make him a must-watch at MSI.
5. Kanavi – Top Esports (LPL)
Kanavi has elevated Top Esports to new heights in 2025, especially with their dominance in Split 2.
Though First Stand wasn’t his best showing, his recent form shows he’s back at the top. Kanavi’s aggressive jungle control will be vital at MSI.
4. Ruler – Gen.G (LCK)
Ruler was briefly outshone early this year but has bounced back in style. Gen.G’s current form — undefeated in recent matches — owes a lot to Ruler’s consistency and lane dominance. As the team gears up for MSI, Ruler looks ready to lead the charge.
3. Faker – T1 (LCK)
Faker is not at number 1? While T1’s icon remains a global legend, 2025 hasn’t been his strongest year yet.
Still, Faker’s ability to show up in big moments keeps him in the top three. Never count out a comeback from the most decorated LoL player in history.
2. Zeus – Hanwha Life Esports (LCK)
Formerly with T1, Zeus now leads Hanwha Life from the top lane. He consistently wins lane matchups and exerts pressure across the map. He was instrumental during First Stand and is still in peak form as MSI approaches.
1. Chovy – Gen.G (LCK)
At the top of the list sits Chovy, Gen.G’s mid lane sensation. His mechanical prowess and game sense have taken Gen.G to an unbeaten streak. If any player can challenge Faker’s legacy, Chovy may just be the one.
Summary
As we head into the Mid-Season Invitational 2025, the spotlight is firmly on these ten players. With dominant performances from Gen.G’s Chovy and Ruler, strong carry potential from HLE’s Zeus and Viper, and veterans like Faker and Caps still in the mix, this year’s MSI promises to be an intense battle.
While Chovy currently sits at the top, the stage is wide open, and history shows that rankings can change overnight.
MSI will be the real test, and we’ll be watching closely to see who rises, who falls, and who makes their case as the best LoL player in the world.
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