The teams with the League of Legends highest earnings will make you want to quit your day job and start on the grind.
Over the years, the competitive landscape of League of Legends has seen the emergence of a select few elite teams that have not only etched their names in esports history but have also amassed substantial earnings through their exceptional performances. These organizations have become synonymous with the game itself, representing the pinnacle of achievement within the League of Legends competitive scene.
These top-earning teams have consistently dominated their respective regions and have made a significant impact on the global stage. Their journey to the upper echelons of the esports world has been marked by countless triumphs, iconic players, and unforgettable moments that have left a lasting impression on fans worldwide. With that, let’s take a look at the League of Legends teams who’ve made the most in the tournament earnings.
Source: esportsearnings.com and Liquipedia.net
Edward Gaming — $4,032,578
Edward Gaming (EDG) is a Chinese esports organization with a strong presence in League of Legends. Established in 2013, EDG quickly rose to prominence within the competitive scene. EDG started strong in the 2014 LPL (League of Legends Pro League), sweeping Invictus Gaming in the grand finals. Their greatest achievement came in 2015 when they won the first ever Mid-Season Invitational (MSI), marking their dominance not only in the LPL but also on the international stage. Led by iconic players like Deft and Clearlove, EDG showcased exceptional team coordination and strategic prowess during this victory.
After a few decent placements at Worlds and many successful LPL wins, they finally won it all at the 2021 World Championship against DAMWON Gaming. With their competitive spirit and skilled roster, Edward Gaming continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional League of Legends, always aiming for victory in both domestic and international tournaments.
Royal Never Give Up — $4,202,948
Royal Never Give Up (RNG) is one of China’s most prestigious esports organizations. Established in 2015 after acquiring Vici Potential Gaming, the team’s first notable win was a first place finish in the 2016 Spring Season against EDG. RNG’s 2018 roster was the most dominant era of the team, with iconic players such as Uzi and Xiaohu, they would go on to win multiple tournaments, including MSI 2018.
After their strong run, RNG became inconsistent, even missing the 2020 Worlds Championship. RNG would still show glimpses of greatness such as winning the 2021 and 2022 MSI, but their fifth-eight placement at 2022 Worlds shows that there’s much more room for improvement. Nonetheless, the “Never Give Up” spirit remains at the core of their identity, symbolizing their resilience and determination to achieve victory.
Samsung Galaxy — $4,252,048
Samsung Galaxy, now known as Gen.G, was a South Korean esports organization with a significant legacy in League of Legends. They reached the pinnacle of their success in 2017 when they won the League of Legends World Championship against SK Telecom T1. The win read like a well-written redemption arc as they previously lost to the same team at Worlds Grand Finals the year before. So, when Ruler flashed to catch Faker by surprise to win the whole thing, it became a defining moment in League of Legend’s esports history.
After their 2017 success, the team rebranded as Gen.G, continuing their legacy in esports and expanding their involvement in various competitive gaming titles. Korea is perhaps the most competitive League of Legend’s region so it’s an impressive feat that Gen.G manages consistently place first and second during these local competitions. Gen.G is on a hot streak right now in the region taking first place in 2022 Summer, 2023 Spring, and 2023 Summer. Gen.G’s rivalry with T1 is healthy for the game and entertaining the fans.
Invictus Gaming — $4,288,482
Invictus Gaming (IG) is a renowned Chinese esports organization that bought from Catastrophic Cruel Memory (CCM), including divisions for Starcraft II, DotA and LoL for $6 million. IG is one the oldest team on this list, and they were even present for the Season 2 World Championship, placing fifth after losing to Moscow Five.
IG’s long competitive history is filled with decent placements with no remarkable wins. But then IG won the 2018 World Champion against the tournament favorites, Fnatic. Worlds 2018 was also League of Legend’s highest prize pool ($6,450,000) and IG took home $2,418,750 to make up more than half of their overall lifetime earnings. IG made history as the first championship win for the Chinese region.
T1 — $8,363,323
T1, formerly known as SK Telecom T1 (often abbreviated as SKT), is the most iconic and successful esports organizations in the history of League of Legends. T1’s dynasty began with their first World Championship win in 2013, led by the legendary mid laner Faker, often considered the greatest League of Legends player of all time. They continued to dominate the competitive landscape, securing additional World Championships in 2015 and 2016. T1’s strategic prowess, exceptional teamwork, and the ability to adapt to the ever-evolving meta made them a formidable opponent.
Apart from their World Championships, T1 has consistently performed at a high level in the LCK (League of Legends Champions Korea), earning numerous domestic titles. Their historic victories, iconic playmakers, and a dedicated fan base have propelled T1 to become a household name in esports, representing the pinnacle of success and excellence in competitive gaming. While the organization rebranded to T1 in 2019, their legacy remains firmly intact, and they continue to be a prominent force in the League of Legends competitive scene.
