Despite having graced the professional stage for over seven years, Robin “ropz” Kool is still only 24 years old. His career is already the stuff of legend, marked by incredible highs, persistent dedication, and overcoming challenges — including accusations of cheating that once forced him to play under strict supervision. Since 2018, he’s been a mainstay on the list of the world’s top 20 players. Today, let’s dive into the story of this Estonian phenom who’s become a cornerstone of competitive Counter-Strike.
The Journey of Ropz: From CS 1.6 to Vitality
From Counter-Strike Beginnings to Cheating Allegations
Ropz’s love affair with Counter-Strike began at the tender age of seven, playing CS 1.6 and honing his movement skills in KreedZ (KZ) mode. Even as a kid, his meticulous approach stood out — a trait that would later define his career.
When CS 1.6 began to fade, he briefly transitioned to Call of Duty, all while harboring a dream of one day joining FaZeClan, the coolest team on the block. Little did he know that dream would become a reality years later.
With the release of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), ropz returned to Valve’s iconic franchise, climbing the ranks from matchmaking to the prestigious FaceIT Pro League (FPL). However, his meteoric rise came with a downside: accusations of cheating. Many players doubted his legitimacy, even refusing to play with him.
The turning point came when ropz was invited to FaceIT’s offices to prove himself. Under intense scrutiny, he showcased his undeniable skill and silenced the doubters, officially kickstarting his professional journey.
Mousesports: From Rookie to Rising Star
Ropz’s first major opportunity came with Mousesports (Mouz), a team that allowed him to balance competitive gaming with education. Initially, the young player faced an adjustment period, but his potential was clear.
His breakout came in 2017 with a victory at ESG Tour Mykonos, followed by an impressive 2018 season, including wins at StarLadder & i-League Season 4 and the V4 Future Sports Festival Budapest. These successes cemented his reputation as one of the brightest stars in CS:GO.
In 2019, Mouz brought in Karrigan, an experienced in-game leader who built a system around ropz’s firepower. This partnership brought several titles and solidified ropz’s place among the elite. By 2020, he was consistently ranked among the top 10 players globally, though Mouz’s struggles during the pandemic eventually led to his departure.
FaZe Clan: Living the Dream
Joining the FaZe Clan in 2022 was a dream come true for ropz, and it didn’t take long for him to deliver results. With Karrigan at the helm once again, FaZe won the PGL Major Antwerp 2022, followed by the coveted Intel Grand Slam.
Ropz thrived as the team’s primary star, earning accolades such as being ranked the third-best player in 2023, just behind ZywOo and NiKo. Alongside his competitive success, ropz also achieved personal milestones, like purchasing a Porsche, a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Team Vitality: A New Chapter
After years of triumphs with FaZe, ropz decided to embark on a new journey. In 2025, he joins Team Vitality, teaming up with ZywOo to form one of the most formidable duos in CS2 esports. With ropz’s precision and ZywOo’s brilliance, Vitality enters the season as a favorite for every major tournament.
The future looks bright
Ropz’s story is far from over. As he begins this new chapter with Vitality, one thing is clear: his drive for excellence and passion for the game remain unwavering. Whether you’re inspired by his tactical genius or his love for skins, ropz is a player who continues to captivate fans and competitors alike.
