NaToSaphiX: "Sonic might be one of the most underrated players of all-time"

Aran "Sonic" Groesbeek has long been considered a top prospect and diamond in the rough by long-time followers of the NA scene, and it seems the rest of the world is finally taking notice.

Following day one of the IEM Cologne 2026 Major, Falcons Force coach and former player Niels Christian "NaToSaphiX" Sillassen heaped praise on Sonic, calling him "one of the most underrated players of all-time" while praising the longevity of his career.

Over the course of his lengthy career in the NA scene, Sonic has played for a number of notable lineups including Bravado, ATK, Cloud9, Extra Salt, Wildcard, and NRG while attending five Majors, including the currently ongoing IEM Cologne 2026 Major. As NaToSaphiX mentioned, Sonic took an extended break from competition in 2022. During that time Sonic came close to joining Davenport University's collegiate esports program before visa issues forced him to withdraw from the program.

Luckily, a stand-in stint with Complexity at IEM Dallas 2023 reignited Sonic's interest in the NA scene and competitive CS more broadly, setting the stage for his return to the top of the NA scene.

Sonic and NRG will be back in action tomorrow at the Major as they look to lock in a spot in Stage Two, with the team currently sitting at a 2-1 record.