As esports continues to skyrocket in popularity, an exciting trend has emerged: the rise of young prodigies competing at professional levels. These aren’t your average gamers; they are tactical geniuses, mastering complex strategies and outplaying competitors twice their age. But how young is the youngest? 

Imagine achieving global fame and earning thousands before even graduating high school. This article shines a spotlight on the 13 youngest esports players who aren’t just playing the game—they’re changing it. Join us as we delve into their world, exploring how these remarkable youngsters have made their mark on the esports scene.

Let’s get started!

1. Lil Poison (Age 6)

Meet Lil Poison, aka Victor De Leon III, born on May 6, 1998. Starting his gaming career at just two years old, guided by his dad and uncle, he quickly rose to fame. By six, he was a pro gamer, smashing records as the youngest esports player in the Guinness Book of World Records by 2009. A top contender in Halo Major League Games, he’s a global gaming sensation. His life even hit the big screen at the HBO Latino Film Festival with a dedicated documentary.

2. 33 Gosu (Age 8)

33 Gosu, real name Joseph Deen, is a gaming prodigy born in 2012. He picked up gaming at just four years old and has never looked back. 33 Gosu’s incredible skills caught the eye of Team 33 during Fortnite battles when he was merely six. After two years of intense training, Joseph signed his first pro contract at the ripe age of eight, becoming the youngest pro-Fortnite player ever. His groundbreaking achievement came with a top-tier gaming PC and a cool $33,000 signing bonus. 

3. Mongraal (Age 8)

Up next is Kyle Jackson, better known as Mongraal. This British esports sensation was born on August 13, 2004, and dove into the gaming world at just eight years old. He’s dominated scenes in Fortnite, CS: GO, Halo, and more. Despite battling curfew restrictions, Mongraal’s unmatched skills shone brightly, earning him the Solo Cooler Cup in February 2019. Mongraal is still a key player in FaZe Clan and continues to make waves as a top-tier Fortnite competitor. He also has a YouTube channel where his 5 million plus subscribers watch him do battle every day. 

4. MrKcool (Age 11)

Benedict Ward, aka MrKcool, wasn’t just any esports player; he was a prodigy. Hailing from the UK, Benedict began his professional gaming career at the astonishingly young age of 11, playing for Vainglory under the alias MrKcool. 

This early start catapulted him into the spotlight as the youngest player to participate in all Vainglory tournaments. From just three tournaments, he amassed over $2000 in winnings before joining the Mousesports esports team (now MOUZ). 

5. iGotUrPistola (Age 12)

Justin Deese, aka “iGotUrPistola,” is a name synonymous with precision and prowess in the Halo esports scene. He embarked on his professional gaming journey at just 12 years old. Born on November 20, 1992, Justin quickly rose to fame within the competitive Halo community. He’s renowned for his extraordinary skill and consistency across numerous tournaments. His early start in the scene saw him become one of the youngest esports players at the MLG National Championship in 2010, marking the beginning of a storied career.

Throughout his career, iGotUrPistola was not just a participant; he was a dominant force, accumulating an impressive total of 19 international tournament wins. He’d retire from competitive play following his final game with OpTic Gaming in 2019, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by fans and fellow gamers alike.

6. Scott Gandhi (Age 13)

Scott “Gandhi” Lussier’s journey through the esports world is as compelling as his gameplay. Born on September 24, 1989, he burst onto the professional gaming scene at 13 years old. Three years later, he participated in the MLG DC 2005 Opener, where he finished a respectable 7th place. 

This marked the beginning of his meteoric rise in the industry. With his team, initially known as IGS and later rebranded as Team Carbon, he clinched victories at MLG Nashville and MLG Seattle in 2005, setting the stage for their ultimate triumph at MLG Dallas in 2007, as they secured first place. 

Gandhi has long since retired and transitioned to esports commentary while playing a pivotal role as a top designer at Hi-Rez Studios. The team contributed to the development of the popular game SMITE.

7. Maru (Age 13)

Maru, whose real name is Cho Sung Choo, is a titan of the StarCraft II scene. He’s renowned not only for his remarkable skill but also for his early start in the realm of professional gaming. Born on July 28, 1997, Maru began his illustrious career at the tender age of 13, swiftly becoming the youngest esports player ever to compete in the prestigious GSL (Global StarCraft II League). 

His fans also know him by various other nicknames, including Marine Prince, Green Terran, and Hamster Terran. Maru’s impressive array of achievements includes racking up over a million dollars in prize money, making him one of the highest earners in the esports world. 

8. Creator (Age 14)

Jang Hyun Woo, who dominates the esports stage under the moniker “Creator,” began his illustrious gaming career at just 14 years old. Born on February 23, 1997, Creator quickly made headlines as one of the youngest competitors in the GSL May Code A tournament in 2011. 

Known for his strategic mastery in playing Protoss, he initially gained fame with the team Prime before making a significant mark on the industry. His talents have led him to his current position with Club NV (formerly Team NV), where he continues to showcase his exceptional skills and dedication.

9. Life (Age 14)

Life, whose real name is Lee Seung Hyun, was born on January 11, 1991. He began his journey into professional gaming at the age of 14,  joining Team Zenex and quickly becoming one of the youngest prodigies in StarCraft II history. Life was an instant hit, capturing the hearts of thousands of fans with his sublime gameplay. 

However, despite his meteoric rise, Life’s career was marred by controversy. His involvement in match-fixing led to a downfall as stark as his ascent. He faced a sentence of 18 months in prison, a hefty fine of $58,000, and a lifetime ban from all Korean professional gaming.

10. Zai (Age 14)

Born on August 5, 1997, Ludwig “Zai” Wåhlberg began his professional gaming journey at the age of 14. Hailing from Sweden, Zai first cut his teeth in the competitive world of Heroes of Newerth before transitioning to the high-stakes arenas of Dota 2. Known for his strategic brilliance and versatility, Zai quickly climbed the ranks, joining elite squads such as Evil Geniuses. 

To date, Zai has competed in 126 tournaments, amassing over 4 million in winnings. His journey is far from over as he continues to demonstrate his prowess. He currently represents Team Liquid on the global stage. 

11. Zzitai (Age 15)

Born on August 25, 1997, Liu Zhihao, better known by his alias Zzitai, embarked on his gaming journey at the young age of 15. Making a stunning debut at the Season 2 China Regional Finals, Zzitai quickly proved his mettle, catapulting into the limelight by reaching the top 8 at the 2012 World Championship. 

Known for his exceptional versatility and strategic mid-lane gameplay, Zzitai became a cornerstone for some of China’s elite League of Legends teams, clinching numerous titles along the way. His illustrious career spanned until 2019, when he decided to retire, leaving behind a legacy of a pioneering esports champion.

12. TaeJa (Age 15)

Going by the gaming name TaeJa, Yun Young Seo entered the competitive gaming scene as a StarCraft II prodigy at 15. Despite facing initial setbacks, including multiple failures to secure a spot in the prestigious GSL, Yun’s relentless pursuit of excellence paid off during his tenure with Team Liquid. His career is adorned with numerous championships, highlighting his strategic mastery and resilience. 

Notably, even during his mandatory military service, Yun managed to compete in the 2018 GSL Season 3 Qualifiers, showcasing his enduring talent. His journey to esports stardom was against his parents’ wishes but was made possible with the unwavering support of his brother, illustrating a tale of defiance and determination.

13. ZeRo4 (Age 16) 

John Hill, better known in the gaming world as ZeRo4, was born into the digital age on November 28, 1984. Diving into competitive gaming at the tender age of 16, ZeRo4 quickly became a household name with his prowess in titles like Quakeworld, Quake III Arena, Quake Live, and Shootmania Storm. 

His meteoric rise began when he became one of the youngest esports players at the WCG Challenge in 2000. Over his career, ZeRo4 dominated several S-tier Quake tournaments, etching his name in the annals of esports history. Now retired from professional play, ZeRo4 continues to influence the gaming world as an esports manager at ID Software, shaping the next generation of champions.

There you have it—the youngest esports players in history. These prodigies aren’t just skilled; they also inspire other young gamers to start esports careers and give their best on a professional level. Feel free to check out our blog space for the latest shaking the gaming community today.