The first stage of the BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 has concluded, and while the biggest name of this phase is undoubtedly nicoodoz, who crushed the competition with a 1.70 rating, the race for second place in individual performance was incredibly tight. We’ve compiled the top 10 players of Stage 1, excluding nicoodoz, who displayed the highest level of individual skill.
tN1R (Heroic) — 1.40 rating

Heroic’s new leader tN1R not only secured his spot in the post-rebuild lineup but also posted the second-highest rating of the stage. His AWP usage was clinical, his game sense sharp, and his composure in clutch moments impressive. With 101 frags across five maps, this was an exceptional debut Major showing.
spooke (OG) — 1.38 rating

While all eyes were on nicoodoz, spooke quietly and effectively reinforced OG’s offensive power. His consistent performance across roles ensured OG’s dominance in their early matches.
SunPayus (Heroic) — 1.34 rating

The well-known Spanish AWPer SunPayus delivered with trademark precision, perfect timing, and smart post-plant play. He formed a formidable duo with tN1R, making Heroic the only team with three players in this top 10 list.
Chr1zN (OG) — 1.31 rating

Another OG player on the list, Chr1zN delivered a series of strong performances: impactful in nearly every round, consistently controlling mid, and winning critical clutch situations. His role in OG’s initial wins was indisputable.
F1KU (OG) — 1.30 rating

F1KU played the classic lurker role to perfection — applying pressure on flanks, timing his rotations, and excelling in mid-round scenarios. He wasn’t flashy, but he was always reliable and effective in supporting the team.
JamYoung (TYLOO) — 1.29 rating

JamYoung played all 8 of TYLOO’s maps and still maintained a high rating, showing exceptional endurance and consistency. His aggressive aim was key in helping TYLOO qualify for Stage 2 — arguably one of the strongest showings by an Asian player at a Major in recent years.
xfl0ud (Heroic) — 1.28 rating

The least talked-about of Heroic’s trio, xfl0ud provided essential support in trades and demonstrated disciplined positional play. Rarely making mistakes, he was always where the team needed him most.
headtr1ck (B8) — 1.28 rating

The top CIS player on the list, headtr1ck became the driving force behind the Ukrainian squad B8. His aggressive AWPing and map control enabled B8 to challenge even the favorites on equal footing.
Moseyuh (TYLOO) — 1.26 rating

Moseyuh matched his teammate JamYoung with eight strong maps and an excellent K/D differential. He consistently cleared critical positions in trade situations, giving TYLOO key openings to convert rounds.
S1ren (BetBoom) — 1.26 rating

A surprise entry in the top 10, S1ren only played five maps but made every one count. His +32 K/D was one of the best in the entire stage. While BetBoom didn’t achieve major team success, S1ren left a lasting mark with his powerful individual performance.
pickWhile nicoodoz was in a league of his own, the battle for second place showed just how competitive Stage 1 really was. OG and Heroic dominated the rankings, each placing three players in the top 10. It’s also refreshing to see strong performances from B8, TYLOO, and BetBoom — proof that the Austin Major served as a breakthrough stage for many rising stars.