ASTRA Aims to Compete in Men’s Counter-Strike 2 Scene
Mayline-Joy “ASTRA” Champliaud, the in-game leader of BIG EQUIPA and HLTV Women’s Player of the Year, has expressed her desire to transition into the men’s Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) scene. This announcement comes amidst a period of change for women’s CS2, following the recent suspension of the ESL Impact circuit.
“I Definitely Want to Challenge Myself on the Men’s Scene”
In a recent interview, ASTRA shared her personal ambitions, stating, “We are rebuilding the team, so we have to start from scratch again. But I definitely want to challenge myself on the men’s scene.”
The IGL emphasized her drive to test her limits against stronger competition and to improve her skills at a higher level. She also highlighted the importance of structure and preparation in her leadership approach, which she believes sets her apart from other players. ASTRA’s goal is to break barriers as a female IGL in Tier 1–3 CS2 matches.
Impact of ESL Impact’s Suspension
The timing of ASTRA’s announcement aligns with a significant shift in the women’s CS2 ecosystem. ESL FACEIT Group recently confirmed that the ESL Impact circuit has been suspended after Season 8, citing financial challenges and an unsustainable model despite years of investment.
This decision has left women’s teams without a major international stage, forcing many players and organizations to reconsider their future. For ASTRA and BIG EQUIPA, this means exploring new opportunities, including potential participation in open CS2 tournaments.
BIG EQUIPA’s Triumph in ESL Impact Season 8
Before the ESL Impact circuit’s abrupt end, BIG EQUIPA secured a historic victory by winning the Season 8 Finals. The team defeated MIBR Female 2–1 in Stockholm, claiming the final ESL Impact trophy. This win cemented their legacy as the best women’s CS2 team of the season.
Reflecting on the achievement, ASTRA said, “It’s crazy. I couldn’t have dreamed of a better team.” Teammate Emma “Emmsan” Mattsson echoed her sentiments, calling the title “what every girl playing Counter-Strike dreams of.”
HLTV Recognition and Roster Updates
At the HLTV Awards, BIG EQUIPA was named Women’s Team of the Year, and ASTRA received the prestigious Women’s Player of the Year award. During the ceremony, the players voiced their concerns about the uncertain future of women’s CS2 but reaffirmed their belief in the scene’s potential.
Following the end of the season, BIG EQUIPA announced several roster changes for 2026:
- aiM and sosya joined the lineup
- kyossa retired from competitive CS2
- vicu left to pursue other opportunities
A New Chapter for ASTRA and BIG EQUIPA
As ASTRA looks to potentially compete in men’s CS2 tournaments, the move symbolizes a new chapter for both her and BIG EQUIPA. With the team rebuilding and the women’s circuit in flux, the competitive landscape may see more female players making bold moves into the open scene.
For fans and bettors alike, these developments are worth following closely. Platforms like CS2bet.io provide in-depth analysis and betting opportunities on the evolving CS2 matches and tournaments. As ASTRA steps into new challenges, expect exciting storylines and competitive action in the months to come.