13-year-old Indian-American student Zaki from Texas won the Scripps National Spelling Bee after he spelt "éclaircissement" correctly. This was Zaki's fourth time participating in the Scripps National Spelling Bee

Zaki earned the prestigious title in round 21 when he correctly spelt the word, which is defined as 'the clearing up of something obscure: enlightenment'. He outlasted eight other accomplished spellers including Sarv Dharavane (centre) and Sarvadnya Kadam (right), to win the title

While Zaki's parents were at the competition, his grandparents watched the competition from their home in Hyderabad

Zaki is only the fifth speller in Bee history to win after coming in second place the year before. He tied for 21st place in 2023 and 370th place in 2019

The teen is also among thirty of the past 36 champions of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, who have been Indian American