First-ever all-women CS:GO tournament at Gamers Without Borders sees NAVI Javelins earn title glory

RIYADH: NAVI Javelins triumphed at the first all-women Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, or CS:GO, tournament at Gamers Without Borders, the world’s largest charitable esports event, after defeating Ninjas in Pyjamas 3-0 in a dramatic final.

The champions, who claimed the majority of a humanitarian aid prize pool of $2.5 million, overcame 9 Pandas Fearless 2-0 in the semifinal to set up their final clash with Ninjas in Pyjamas, who defeated Nigma Galaxy 2-0 in their semifinal encounter. G2 Oya and Big Equipa were eliminated at the quarterfinal stage in the three-day, six-team competition, which began on Thursday, April 27.

NAVI Javelins’ Hanka said: “To be crowned champions at the first all-women Counter-Strike: Global Offensive tournament at Gamers Without Borders is a huge honor — we’re so excited to win. The competition over the past few days has been intense but credit to all the team for pulling through and coming out on top.

“We’d like to thank the Saudi Esports Federation and Gamers Without Borders for organizing such an amazing event and hope all the women gamers in Saudi Arabia and across the world loved this tournament as much as we did.”

Turki Alfawzan, CEO of the Saudi Esports Federation, said: “Hosting the first all-women Counter-Strike: Global Offensive tournament at Gamers Without Borders is a reflection of the charitable event’s importance and status within the global esports community. It’s another step in our journey of nurturing elite gaming athletes and developing the gaming community and industry.”

The proceeds from the prize pool at GWB, held virtually by the Saudi Esports Federation, will be donated to humanitarian aid partners Direct Relief, IMC, UNICEF, King Salman Humanitarian Aid and