Patrick Nussbaumer, known online as Sinerias, earns a living playing “League of Legends,” one of the world’s most popular video games. The 26-year-vintage from Vorarlberg, Austria, has transformed a passion into a profession, dedicating upwards of 40 hours a week – sometimes reaching 70 to 80 – to the demanding world of competitive gaming.
Nussbaumer’s income primarily comes from streaming, allowing viewers to watch him play in real-time. He supplements this revenue by working as a coach, offering guidance and expertise to other players seeking to improve their skills, much like a fitness or football coach. According to OP.GG, as of February 16, 2026, Sinerias currently holds Challenger rank on the EUW server with 1485 LP, specializing in Master Yi, with a 63% win rate across 97 games.
The pursuit of excellence recently led Nussbaumer to spend 70 days in South Korea, a global hub for competitive gaming. He described the environment as intensely competitive, requiring as little as two hours of sleep per night. Despite the grueling schedule, he emphasizes the importance of adequate rest, stating that sleep deprivation is counterproductive.
When asked about the potential for addiction, Nussbaumer firmly rejects the label, characterizing his dedication as “passion.” He asserts his ability to disengage from gaming for extended periods to pursue other interests, viewing it as a lifestyle and a source of enjoyment.
Initially, Nussbaumer’s family harbored doubts about his career path. However, his brother, Leon, now offers his support, acknowledging the mental strain of the demanding schedule. “Sometimes I reckon it really takes a toll on the psyche, when he plays so many hours a day, and not just for one day, but the whole week through. That is tough, but Patrick is an all-or-nothing type, so he always goes all in and when he wants to get something done, he does it that way and I have no concerns about him and he knows himself when he needs to stop,” Leon told ORF Vorarlberg.
To maintain balance, Nussbaumer actively seeks activities outside of gaming. He prioritizes sports and spending time in nature, recognizing their importance in preserving his well-being and optimizing his performance. “I also have to be at peace with myself in order to do what I love,” he said.
Sinerias’s YouTube channel, launched in 2024, currently features content focused on “League of Legends” gameplay and coaching, attracting a growing audience. His expertise is particularly focused on the champion Master Yi, where he is considered a world-class player.
