Texas Teen Faizan Zaki Wins Spelling Bee With ‘Éclaircissement’

Photo: @Scrippsnews

India-West News Desk

OXON HILL, MD – A Plano, Texas student has taken home the top prize at the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee, capping off a remarkable journey of determination, family support, and four years of relentless effort. Thirteen-year-old Faizan Zaki, a seventh grader at Rice Middle School, clinched victory May 29 night with the word éclaircissement — which means “a clearing up of something obscure.”

Faizan, the son of immigrants from South India, has long been known in spelling circles for his focus and dedication. His mother, Arshia Quadri, a doctor specializing in internal medicine, and his father, Zaki Anwar, proudly watched from the audience at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Maryland, alongside Faizan’s twin sister, Zara Jabeen.

For Arshia, the moment was especially emotional. Recalling her move to the United States years ago, she told the Dallas Morning News: “Now I know why my dad wanted me to come here. This really is the best place on earth in terms of the ideals and the ability to do best in every area. I absolutely believe the American dream.”

That dream came true for Faizan in spectacular fashion. When faced with the final word, éclaircissement, he didn’t hesitate — skipping the usual questions about definition and origin, he spelled it confidently and correctly. As the final letter echoed through the ballroom, Faizan pumped his fists and collapsed to the floor, overcome by emotion, as confetti rained down and cheers erupted.

It was a full-circle moment for the Allen, Texas native. In last year’s bee, Faizan had fallen just short during a dramatic spell-off. This year, in the bee’s historic 100th edition, he returned with focus and flair — and became the first runner-up in over two decades to come back and win it all.

The path to victory wasn’t without drama, the Associated Press noted. With the field narrowed to three, Faizan nearly stumbled on the word commelina, starting to spell it incorrectly before catching himself in the nick of time. Then came the moment of truth. After both Sarvadnya Kadam and Sarv Dharavane missed their words, Faizan stood alone, just one perfect spelling away from glory.

Sarvadnya 14-year-old from Visalia, California, finished as runner-up in his final year of eligibility. His performance earned admiration from judges and viewers alike. At just 11 years old, Sarv Dharavane of Dunwoody, Georgia, took third place, demonstrating talent far beyond his years.

Reflecting on the win afterward, Faizan was still reeling from the moment. “I can’t describe it,” he told reporters. “It’s so amazing getting to this point, winning. I never expected this in a million years.”

His story now becomes part of Bee history — not only for his brilliance with éclaircissement, but for his unforgettable recovery and resilience. And in joining a legacy of Indian American champions — 30 of the last 36 winners.