Finalist (noun)

A person or team competing in the final stage of a competition.

Origin:

Early 17th century, from french finaliste, from final 'final', from latin finalis.

Examples:

1. She was the only finalist in the spelling bee competition.
2. The three finalists of the race would get to compete in the championship.
3. The finalist in the cooking competition was determined by a panel of judges.
4. The tennis player was one of the eight finalists in the tournament.
5. The choir was one of the five finalists in the singing competition.