Wellington’s Dylan Early has claimed the 2025 Masters Scrabble Championship, a victory that thrilled fans worldwide. Writing for One Network Wellington Live, I’m excited to share this story. Early, now New Zealand’s 41st Masters champion, triumphed in a fierce weekend tournament. Twenty-four top players battled over 23 games, but Early’s skill and nerve secured the crown. This win, Wellington’s pride, shone brightly as thousands watched online. The event, a top Scrabble contest, proved unforgettable.

The Masters tournament gripped everyone. Early tied with defending champion Howard Warner, both earning 17 wins. Yet, Early’s 1673-point spread clinched the title in the final game. This dramatic finish had fans cheering. For the first time, the event was livestreamed, drawing global viewers. Expert commentators, including international Scrabble stars, heightened the excitement. From Wellington to the world, fans tuned in, including non-players. Early loved the buzz. “The livestreaming made it so exciting,” he said. “It added a new dimension.”

Early’s path to victory inspires. Born in South Africa, he found Scrabble at university. Joining a local club, he got hooked. His first national tournament in 1993 was tough; he lost every game. But he studied hard and won South Africa’s title six times. He also competed in the World Scrabble Championships. In 2017, Early moved to New Zealand and joined the Wellington Scrabble Club. His talent shone. He won the NZ national title in 2018 and led New Zealand to beat Australia in the 2024 Trans-Tasman Challenge. In 2019, he placed 47th at the World Championships in India. Early won the Masters in 2021 and was runner-up from 2022 to 2024. His 756-point game in 2019, New Zealand’s highest, ranks among the world’s best.

This year’s Masters was intense. “No game is easy,” Early said. On the final day, five players could have won. Early’s focus and a bit of luck sealed his victory. “I’m thrilled,” he grinned, “even by a narrow margin.” A mnemonics fan, he uses over 5,000 memory aids for Scrabble words. “I need mnemonics for my mnemonics,” he laughed. Outside Scrabble, Early enjoys mountain biking, chess, dog walking, and perfecting his coffee. He’s also a fan of Joseph Herscher’s quirky videos.

The top ten placings showed fierce competition. Early led with 17 wins and a 1673 spread. Warner followed with 17 wins but a 1335 spread. Christchurch’s Lewis Hawkins took third with 16 wins. Dunedin’s Peter Sinton and Auckland’s Chris Tallman also scored 16 wins, with Whanganui’s Anderina McLean in sixth. Auckland’s Lawson Sue, Wellington’s Gil Quiballo, Stanley Ngundi, and Whangarei’s Cicely Bruce completed the list. Fans can rewatch the matches online, reliving the thrill.

The livestreaming success signals Scrabble’s bright future. Thousands watched, proving the game’s wide appeal. Early believes the Masters will grow. “I’ll be back next year,” he vowed. His win lifts Wellington’s spirit. The Wellington Scrabble Club, where he plays, buzzed with joy. Fans on X called him “Wellington’s word wizard,” sharing clips of his final game. This victory puts Wellington on the Scrabble map. The city, known for its vibrant culture, now celebrates a global champion.

Scrabble’s intensity surprised many. Each word mattered, and Early stayed calm. “You need a strong nerve,” he said. His experience, from South Africa to world stages, helped. Yet, he stays humble. “Luck helps,” he admitted. For Wellington, Early’s win is huge. The Scrabble Club welcomes newcomers, and Early urges them to try. “Just play,” he said. “You’ll love it.” His journey, from last place in 1993 to champion, inspires all.

Wellington beams with pride. Early’s 2025 Masters win, shared by One Network Wellington Live, celebrates a local hero. His story shows skill, heart, and the magic of words. The Wellington Scrabble Club invites everyone to join the fun. Pick up a board, play a word, and follow Early’s lead. This victory proves anything is possible, and Wellington’s star will keep shining.