Fatima Bosch of Mexico has secured the Miss Universe 2025 title in a ceremony held in Thailand, overcoming a significant pre-pageant controversy that had cast a shadow over the event. The 25-year-old humanitarian received the crown from last year's winner, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark.
• Winner: Fatima Bosch (Mexico) • First Runner-up: Praveenar Singh (Thailand) • Second Runner-up: Stephany Abasali (Venezuela) • Top 5: Ahtisa Manalo (Philippines) and Olivia Yacé (Ivory Coast)
The pageant was marked by weeks of controversy stemming from an incident where Miss Universe Thailand director, Nawat Itsaragrisil, publicly reprimanded Bosch during a live-streamed meeting for allegedly not posting enough promotional content.
When Bosch objected, Nawat called security to remove her, leading several contestants to stage a solidarity walkout. This incident drew international condemnation, including from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who praised Bosch’s "dignity." The Miss Universe Organization subsequently restricted Nawat's role, and he later issued an apology.
The event, often dubbed the "Super Bowl" of beauty pageants, featured contestants from 120 countries. Nadeen Ayoub made history as the first woman to represent the Palestinian people, reaching the Top 30.
The finale was hosted by comedian Steve Byrne and included a performance by Thai singer Jeff Satur. During the final Q&A, Bosch shared a message of self-worth: "Believe in the power of your authenticity. Your dreams matter, your heart matters. Never let anyone make you doubt your worth."
In a separate incident during the preliminary round, Jamaica’s Gabrielle Henry suffered a fall on stage and was taken away on a stretcher, though Miss Universe President Raul Rocha confirmed she sustained no fractures.
The pageant also saw backlash directed at Miss Universe 1996 Alicia Machado for using derogatory language in an Instagram livestream.
