“Win rate is 100%!” — Exclusive interview with makazze about preparing for IEM Cologne, career and adaptation to the main NAVI roster

We had the opportunity to talk to CS2’s rising star from Kosovo, Drin “makazze” Shaqiri. In an exclusive interview for Bo3.gg, makazze talked about his path to the main roster of Natus Vincere, the adaptation process and the team’s preparation for IEM Cologne 2025. He also shared his thoughts on the recent changes in the competitive map pool, talked about how he mentally prepares for competitive matches, and confidently stated that he believes that he can gain a foothold in NAVI.

Tell us how you started playing CS. Who introduced you to the game? How was it?

I started playing CS 1.6 when I was 4 years old. My brother taught me how to play CS 1.6, and I haven’t stopped playing since.

At what point did you realize that you wanted to become a professional player?

When I joined FPL-C.

Tell us more about your path to the professional scene. How did you join your first mix bands? How was the KS team formed?

I played a lot of FPL-C and there were a lot of players from Kosovo. Gejmzilla wrote to me and asked: “Do you want to play in a mixed tournament?”

How was your transition to NAVI Junior? Tell us about this period. Were there any auditions, or were you immediately offered a contract?

Hmm, it was a test. There were 20-30 players. It was a trial for 2-3 weeks. On the last day, I was accepted into NAVI Junior.

Which top riflers in the world do you look up to? Do you have idols?

I have no one.