After three suspenseful and emotion-filled hours, Miss Mexico - Fátima Bosch - was officially crowned Miss Universe 2025 at the grand finale held in Thailand on November 21. The runners-up titles went to contestants from Thailand, Venezuela, the Philippines, and Côte d’Ivoire.

An electrifying start

The final event began at 8 AM local time with a dazzling opening ceremony. Following the introduction segment, the organizers announced the Top 30 finalists, selected from contestants representing countries and territories around the world, including India, Guadeloupe, China, Thailand, Brazil, Rwanda, Côte d’Ivoire, Colombia, the Netherlands, Cuba, Bangladesh, Japan, Puerto Rico, the United States, Mexico, the Philippines, Zimbabwe, Costa Rica, Malta, Chile, Canada, Croatia, Venezuela, Guatemala, Palestine, Nicaragua, France, the Dominican Republic, and Paraguay (who won the fan vote).

Swimsuit round: Where confidence shines

In the swimsuit segment, each of the Top 30 contestants appeared on stage in colorful two-piece swimwear. With approximately 30 seconds to walk the runway, they demonstrated poise, energy, and confidence, engaging both the judges and the cheering audience.

The segment was charged with energy and excitement, with each contestant showcasing vibrant charisma, refined catwalk skills, and lively interaction with the cameras and spectators.

At the end of the round, judges selected the Top 12 contestants: Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Guadeloupe, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, China, the Philippines, Thailand, Malta, and Côte d’Ivoire.

Evening gown competition: Elegance meets individuality

The Top 12 contestants then moved on to the evening gown segment, where they displayed personal style, elegance, and stage command.

Standout looks included:

Chile in an off-shoulder pink sequin gown
Colombia in a high-slit pastel pink fitted dress
Guadeloupe in a navy blue crystal-embellished ensemble
Mexico exuding queenly grandeur in a red and gold embroidered gown with a dramatic cape
Venezuela in a radiant red dress with gold sequin accents
China surprising the audience in a shimmering silver gown paired with a white feathered cape by Vietnamese designer Nguyen Minh Tuan

After this visually striking segment, the judges narrowed the field to the Top 5: Thailand, the Philippines, Venezuela, Mexico, and Côte d’Ivoire.

The Q&A: Voices of purpose and passion

In the all-important interview round, each finalist addressed a question live from the judges:

Thailand was asked what global issue she would address if speaking at the UN General Assembly. She chose gender equality, advocating for equal treatment in the workplace and families, and called on everyone to raise their voices for women’s rights.

The Philippines spoke about her dream to inspire others, having come from a poor background. She started entering beauty contests at age 10 to fund her education and lift her family out of poverty. Her presence on the Miss Universe stage was proof of perseverance and determination.

Venezuela was asked how she would use the Miss Universe platform to foster empathy and cultural understanding. Drawing from her experience living across continents, she emphasized breaking language barriers and the power of female role models to shape the world.

Mexico addressed the challenges facing women in 2025. As Miss Universe, she vowed to use her voice to create safe spaces for women worldwide. “Women today must speak up and lead change,” she said. “Those who dare to rise become the ones who make history.”

Côte d’Ivoire was asked what emotional skill should be taught in schools. She emphasized teaching self-love to young girls through the mantra “affirm your identity.” She believes that confidence and self-worth empower girls to shine and shape their futures.

Final question: Empowering the next generation

In the last round, the Top 5 were given the same final question: “If you win the Miss Universe title, how will you use this platform to empower young girls?”

Thailand said that everyone can overcome failure, and the key is not how you fall, but how you rise. She encouraged girls to be their own heroes and spread light to others.

The Philippines highlighted her work with a youth organization that helps children from low-income families recognize that their circumstances do not define their futures. She wants to expand this mission through the Miss Universe platform.

Venezuela spoke about the combined power of education and communication. Her journey to Miss Universe, shaped by belief and experience, reflects her desire to be a steadfast example of perseverance for all girls.

Mexico delivered a heartfelt message: “Believe in the power of your authenticity. Believe in yourself. Your dreams matter. Your voice matters. Never let anyone make you question your worth - you are valuable and your voice must be heard.”

Côte d’Ivoire envisioned herself as the face of a new generation - blending modernity with tradition. She aims to be a role model for girls everywhere, showing that they too can lead, shine, and affirm their identity with pride.

Crowning moment

After a touching final walk by outgoing Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig, host Steve Byrne returned to announce the winner.

In a wave of cheers and applause, Fátima Bosch of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025. Overcome with emotion, she shed tears as Victoria Kjær Theilvig placed the crown on her head - marking a beautiful conclusion to an inspiring journey.

Huy Minh