CINCINNATI – Faizan Zaki Crowned Champion
Faizan Zaki (FAY-zahn ZAH-kee), a remarkable 13-year-old from Allen, Texas, emerged as the champion of the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee. In a thrilling culmination of the competition, Zaki clinched the prestigious title in round 21 by accurately spelling the word “éclaircissement,” which translates to "the clearing up of something obscure: enlightenment."
Adam Symson, the president and CEO of The E.W. Scripps Company, presented the championship trophy shortly before the broadcast on ION concluded, marking a significant moment in the Bee's 97-year history.
Symson remarked on Zaki's achievement, stating, "Faizan exemplified the determination that defines a champion. His unwavering focus and preparation led to a well-earned victory tonight on the Bee’s largest stage." This sentiment beautifully captures the essence of the competition, which inspires countless young minds.
A Celebration of Resilience and Excellence
In this landmark 100th year of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, Zaki's victory is not only a personal triumph but also a celebration of the shared stories of spellers throughout the Bee’s history. These narratives reinforce the enduring legacy of the competition, emphasizing themes of connection, resilience, and unbounded potential in youth.
This win marks Zaki’s fourth consecutive participation in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. The seventh-grader from C.M. Rice Middle School previously displayed his skills by finishing second in the 2024 Bee after a closely contested spell-off against Bruhat Soma. This remarkable achievement positions Zaki as only the fifth speller in the competition’s history to win after a second-place finish the previous year. His path has seen him place 21st in 2023 and 370th in 2019, showcasing his growth and perseverance.
Acknowledging Fellow Competitors
In addition to Zaki’s victory, other spellers also received recognition for their outstanding performances. Sarvadnya Kadam from Visalia, California, secured second place and will receive a prize of $25,000, while Sarv Dharavane from Dunwoody, Georgia, will be awarded $15,000 for his third-place finish, representing the Georgia Association of Educators.
About the Scripps National Spelling Bee
The 97th Scripps National Spelling Bee was held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, with competition commencing Tuesday and featuring a total of 242 spellers. Enthusiasts eager to revisit the finals can tune in for an encore presentation on Scripps News.
The Scripps National Spelling Bee has long stood as the nation’s largest and longest-running educational program since its inception in 1925, igniting a passion for words and fostering lifelong curiosity among participants. The event continues to enrich communities and celebrate academic excellence year after year.
Looking Ahead
The finals aired exclusively on Scripps Networks, which encompasses popular entertainment channels like ION, Bounce, Grit, ION Mystery, and Laff, alongside various free, ad-supported streaming channels. This accessibility further enhances the Bee’s reach, allowing fans to witness these incredible displays of talent.
For further insights and photographs from this year's event, interested parties can explore the Scripps National Spelling Bee's official platforms for a deeper connection to this cherished American tradition.
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