The 2025 Microsoft Excel World Championships final in Las Vegas has been won by Irishman Diarmuid Early. Bestowed with the nickname ‘the LeBron James of Excel spreadsheets,’ it might not therefore be the most surprising victory. However, Early had to beat 256 other eager and dedicated spreadsheet heads to win the trophy, and secure the prize pot of $60,000.
From quiet home office to cacophonous Las Vegas arena
It’s a wonder that the stark difference in atmosphere doesn’t put some people off. Perhaps handling the distractions of the HyperX Arena was one of Early’s strengths – or others were more affected by the roaring crowds and hectic atmosphere.
Given his ‘stage name’ you would be correct to assume that this wasn’t Early’s first rodeo. Indeed, the Irishman, originally from Galway and Waterford and now living in New York, has been a finalist three times. However, he admits he has a record of choking as the competition reaches its climax.
Has Early got a secret behind his success? He says that having his own business helped, and it’s a financial business, so spreadsheets are a constant daily work feature.
Timed eliminations build excitement
Chatting with BBC News, Early conveyed the pressure and excitement of spreadsheet-based eSports. Notably, the stress of competing dramatically ramps up with the timed eliminations of the final rounds. Every five minutes, those in last place get knocked out, explained Early, “You're constantly watching your back.”
Triple world champion Andrew Ngai was held to second place this year, with an award of $5,000.
Excel eSports?
Perhaps one of the most eyebrow-raising eSports tournament hits is the enthusiasm for playing and watching people face spreadsheet challenges. The source report notes that Excel as an eSport is more than 20 years old.
Microsoft’s Excel has grown to be a remarkably capable and complex application over the years. Earlier in 2025 we even highlighted that a dev had managed to get Linux running inside the app, just for fun.
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