Faizan Zaki, a 13-year-old from Allen, Texas, emerged as the winner of the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee on May 29, clinching the title in the 21st round by correctly spelling the word “éclaircissement,” which means “the clearing up of something obscure: enlightenment.”
Zaki, a seventh-grade student at C.M. Rice Middle School, showed exceptional composure and confidence as he spelled the final word without asking for definitions, origins, or any clarification.
His win marks a major milestone in his spelling journey.
“This was a moment years in the making,” said Adam Symson, president and CEO of The E.W. Scripps Company. “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.”
A Long Road to Victory
Faizan Zaki’s triumph in 2025 was the result of years of dedication. This was his fourth appearance at the National Spelling Bee. He first competed in 2019 at the age of 7, finishing in 370th place. He returned in 2023 and placed 21st, followed by a runner-up finish in 2024 after a spell-off loss to Bruhat Soma.
With this win, Zaki becomes only the fifth speller in Bee history to win the championship after placing second the previous year.
Earlier in the evening, Zaki made an unexpected error but was given another chance when the remaining contestants faltered. In the end, he outlasted eight other finalists to secure the title.
Awards and Recognition
As the 2025 champion, Faizan Zaki receives:
- $50,000 cash prize and the Scripps Cup from The E.W. Scripps Company
- $2,500 cash prize and reference library from Merriam-Webster
- $400 Britannica reference set and a three-year Britannica Online Premium membership
- $1,000 in Scholastic Dollars to donate to a school of his choice
- A five-year News-O-Matic subscription for that school
He was sponsored by the Dallas Sports Commission.
Top Finalists
- Second Place: Sarvadnya Kadam of Visalia, California – $25,000 prize
- Third Place: Sarv Dharavane of Dunwoody, Georgia – $15,000 prize
A Historic Bee
The 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee was especially meaningful as it marked the competition’s 100th anniversary.
Held in National Harbor, Maryland, the event welcomed former champions to celebrate a century of academic excellence and competition. First held in 1925, the Bee has become a defining tradition in American education.
Faizan Zaki’s Legacy
Faizan Zaki’s journey stands as a powerful example of persistence and growth. His return year after year, rising steadily in the ranks, shows the value of consistent effort and resilience.
His victory will be remembered as one of the most inspiring moments in the Bee’s century-long history.
