Adriana Harmeyer, an archivist from West Lafayette, Indiana, proved her Jeopardy! prowess isn’t just for dusty documents, handily winning her Tournament of Champions match on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Up against Will Wallace and Ryan Manton, Harmeyer displayed a command of categories ranging from “Black Mystery Month” to “Big ‘C’ities” in the first round. While Wallace struggled initially, Manton kept pace with Harmeyer, setting up a classic Jeopardy! showdown.
Harmeyer’s strategic wagering on Daily Doubles in Double Jeopardy propelled her into the lead, correctly identifying Isaac Newton’s Westminster Abbey resting place. Manton remained competitive but couldn’t match Harmeyer’s momentum. A risky, but ultimately unsuccessful, Daily Double wager by Wallace left him trailing significantly as Final Jeopardy! approached.
The final clue, concerning a country bordering Russia near Vladivostok, proved no match for Harmeyer and Manton, both answering correctly (North Korea). Harmeyer’s wager secured her victory with a final score of 25,000, while Manton finished with a respectable 22,001. Wallace, unfortunately, ended with a zero balance after an incorrect Final Jeopardy! response.
Harmeyer’s performance demonstrated a combination of knowledge, strategy, and a touch of gamesmanship, solidifying her place as a Tournament of Champions contender to watch. While Manton put up a good fight, it was Harmeyer’s day. One can only imagine the meticulous archival system she employs to store all that Jeopardy! trivia.
Jeopardy! airs weekdays in syndication. Check your local listings.
