Faizan Zaki triumphs by capturing the Scripps National Spelling Bee title

In the United States, Faizan Zaki made headlines on May 29, 2025, by winning the 100th Scripps National Spelling Bee. Entering the competition as a favorite after finishing runner-up last year, Faizan demonstrated remarkable skill and composure throughout the event. He faced intense pressure as he was down to the final three spellers, having nearly faltered on a word, 'commelina,' due to rushing. After this close call, he regained his focus and successfully spelled the word 'éclaircissement,' which means enlightenment, marking a significant victory for him and the event. Faizan's performance was characterized by his casual demeanor, as he spelled his words while wearing a black hoodie and jokingly referring to the judges as 'bro.' Despite this laid-back approach, he committed a substantial amount of time to practice prior to the competition—between 30 to 40 hours per week—including both weekdays and weekends. This dedication reflects his long-standing passion for spelling, having participated in the bee since he was seven years old through a discontinued wild-card program. Notably, Faizan's victory came with substantial financial rewards. Alongside the winner’s prize of $52,500, he added his second-place prize from the previous year, increasing his total earnings to $77,500. Throughout the competition, Faizan maintained that his love for language and words outweighed the desire for the title itself. He expressed recognition that despite winning, he did enjoy the competitive aspect and the fun of participating in the bee. The Scripps National Spelling Bee has a rich history, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Majority of the recent champions, including Faizan, have been of Indian American descent, continuing a trend that began with the victory of Nupur Lala in 1999, which drew significant national attention. This year's event also saw participation from many past champions, further enriching the experience for contestants and fans alike. Faizan's victory symbolizes not only personal achievement but also contributes to the legacy of excellence in spelling that the national bee has cultivated over the decades.