Jeopardy! Semifinal Ends in Historic $52,000 Win

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — In a thrilling semifinal match of Jeopardy!’s Champions Wildcard tournament on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, history lecturer Will Yancey from Banquete, Texas, clinched a dramatic victory with a perfect Final Jeopardy wager, securing his place in the finals with a $52,000 win.

The game, which aired as part of Season 41, Game 97, featured three formidable competitors: Yancey, government relations manager Jay Fisher from Lisle, Illinois, and data analytics director Evan Dorey from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The match was marked by intense buzzer battles and strategic wagering, culminating in one of the most memorable games in recent Jeopardy! history.

Yancey, who had previously missed a Daily Double in the first round, rebounded strongly by dominating the Bible category in Double Jeopardy. His correct response to the Final Jeopardy clue — “What is Lorelei‘s rock?” — sealed his victory. The clue, in the Mythology category, referenced the Nibelungen treasure myth and the 13th-century German poet Der Marner.

“Will was the only player correct in Final, and that makes him the winner of one of the best games of all time,” said a Jeopardy! spokesperson. Yancey will now advance to the finals, where he will face fellow Second Chance qualifier Drew Goins.

Evan Dorey, who led going into Final Jeopardy with $32,400, wagered $20,000 and ended with $12,400 after an incorrect response. Jay Fisher, who struggled throughout the game, finished with $2,800 after wagering $0 in the final round.

The game also featured standout moments, including Yancey’s impressive run in the Bible category and Dorey’s True Daily Double in the “B” On The Sea category. Combined, the contestants answered 85 clues correctly, with only 10 incorrect responses.

Jeopardy! fans took to social media to praise the high level of competition. “This was one of the most exciting games I’ve ever seen,” tweeted one viewer. “Will’s comeback was incredible.”

The finals, set to air later this week, promise more intense competition as Yancey and Goins vie for the Champions Wildcard title.