The Scripps National Spelling Bee annually showcases the very best and brightest students, and this year's edition is no different. At least one student will join the 109 champions whose spelling skills have paid off in a big way.

Faizan Zaki, a 13-year-old boy from the Dallas area, won the 97th Scripps National Spelling Bee on Thursday, swiftly nailing the French-derived word "eclaircissement," synonymous with enlightenment, in the 21st round of the contest finals.

Zaki bested Sarvadnya Kadam in the 20th round to win the 2025 Scripps National Spelling Bee on Thursday night. He sealed the deal by nailing éclaircissement, running out of breath and collapsing to the floor as confetti fell on him and the crowd erupted.