New Delhi: Mexico’s Fatima Bosch has been crowned Miss Universe 2025 after a competition marked by multiple controversies. The 25-year-old humanitarian and volunteer received the crown from last year’s winner, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark.
Miss Universe 2025: Top 5 Contestants
Ahtisa Manalo of the Philippines was named third runner-up, while Venezuela’s Stephany Abasali finished as second runner-up.
Bosch, 25, also emerged as a fan favourite after she staged a walkout earlier in the pageant—stepping out in her evening gown and heels—following an alleged berating by a Thai pageant director.
Miss Universe: Runner-Ups
1st runner-up: Thailand’s Praveenar Singh
2nd runner-up: Venezuela’s Stephany Abasali
3rd runner-up: Philippines’ Ahtisa Manalo
4th runner-up: Ivory Coast’s Olivia Yacé
Fatima Bosch’s Winning Answer
The finalists were asked questions on pressing global issues and how they would use their platform to empower young girls.
Bosch’s standout response was:
“Believe in the power of your authenticity. Your dreams matter, your heart matters. Never let anyone make you doubt your worth.”
Her message aligned with this year’s Miss Universe theme, ‘The Power of Love,’ which focused on global unity, empowerment, and compassion.
Nawat Itsaragrisil Controversy
In the early days of the pageant, Bosch was reportedly called a “dumbhead” by Miss Universe host Nawat Itsaragrisil. The incident allegedly stemmed from a disagreement over Bosch’s failure to post promotional content on her social media. While Nawat has denied using the derogatory term, he did confirm that he asked security to intervene during the dispute.
This year’s event saw participation from 120 countries. Friday’s finale was hosted by American comedian Steve Byrne and opened with a performance by Thai singer Jeff Satur.
India at Miss Universe 2025
Manika Vishwakarma, who hails from Rajasthan, represented India at the global beauty pageant this year.
However, she was unable to secure a spot in the Top 12 at Miss Universe 2025.
India last won the Miss Universe crown in 2021, when Harnaaz Sandhu brought home the title. Previously, Sushmita Sen won in 1994, followed by Lara Dutta in 2000.