- Faizan Zaki, 13, wins the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee after placing second in 2024.
- He correctly spelled “éclaircissement” to secure victory in round 21.
- Zaki becomes the fifth speller to win after finishing second the year prior.
- He receives over $50,000 in prizes and national recognition.
- The 97th Bee celebrated a century of spelling excellence and global participation.
A Champion Rises After Near Victory
National Harbor, MD, May 29, 2025 – Faizan Zaki, a 13-year-old from Allen, Texas, has emerged as the champion of the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee. Representing the Dallas Sports Commission, Zaki clinched the title in round 21 by correctly spelling the word “éclaircissement”, defined as “the clearing up of something obscure: enlightenment.”
According to Scripps National Spelling Bee, this was Zaki’s fourth appearance at the national competition.
From Runner-Up to National Champion
In 2024, Zaki finished second in a dramatic spell-off. In 2023, he tied for 21st place, and in 2019, he ranked 370th. His journey reflects steady improvement and unmatched determination. Now, as a 7th grader at C.M. Rice Middle School, he joins an elite group of spellers who turned perseverance into success.
Zaki becomes only the fifth speller in Bee history to claim the title after finishing second the year before.
Prestigious Awards and Recognition
For his win, Zaki receives:
- $50,000 cash prize, a commemorative medal, and the official Scripps Cup
- $2,500 and a reference library from Merriam-Webster
- $400 in reference works and Britannica’s 1768 replica set
- $1,000 Scholastic Dollars donated to a school of his choice
- Five-year subscription to News-O-Matic’s K–8 news platform for his school
The 97th Bee, held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, hosted 242 spellers over multiple days of intense competition.
Top Finishers
Sarvadnya Kadam of Visalia, California, representing Tulare County Office of Education, finished second and earned $25,000. Third place went to Sarv Dharavane of Dunwoody, Georgia, who took home $15,000.
A Century of Spelling Excellence
The Scripps National Spelling Bee, founded in 1925, is one of the oldest academic competitions in the United States. It was originally launched by the Courier-Journal of Louisville before E.W. Scripps took over sponsorship in 1941. The Bee has become a national tradition that celebrates language, discipline, and youth achievement.
Though termed “National,” the competition welcomes international spellers. In 1998, Jody-Anne Maxwell from Jamaica became the first non-U.S. winner. Since 1999, Indian-American students have notably dominated the contest. In 2016, 11-year-old Nihar Janga became the youngest champion. In 2021, Zaila Avant-garde became the first African-American winner.
Inspiration for Future Generations
As the Bee enters its 100th year, Scripps emphasized the competition’s enduring message. “The Bee’s legacy champions connection, resilience, and the limitless potential of young minds,” said Symson during the closing ceremony. Faizan Zaki now joins a long list of inspiring figures who embody that spirit.
This article is based on the official announcement by Scripps National Spelling Bee and verified results from the Bee’s 2025 championship event.
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