BANGKOK — Fátima Bosch Fernández, a 25-year-old from Mexico, was crowned Miss Universe 2025 on Friday. Her victory is not just a win; it’s a statement that highlights resilience in the face of bullying.
The event was overshadowed by controversy. During the live sashing ceremony, Bosch was scolded by the Thai national director, Nawat Itsaragrisil, for not following his guidelines. Tensions escalated when Bosch defended herself, prompting her and others, including Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, to walk out in protest.
When Bosch was announced as the winner, the crowd erupted in cheers, waving Mexican flags. In her first comments after the win, Bosch expressed a desire to change the perception of what a Miss Universe can be, emphasizing that the pageant is a platform for women to find their voices.
Bosch’s journey has not just been about beauty; she has studied fashion in Mexico and Italy, focusing on sustainability. She actively volunteers for various causes, including environmental initiatives and mental health support. According to a 2023 survey by Statista, 63% of young women view beauty pageants as opportunities for personal growth rather than mere competition.
The first runner-up was Praveenar Singh from Thailand, while Stephany Adriana Abasali Nasser of Venezuela took third place. The event featured contestants from over 100 countries.
The fallout from the event extended beyond the stage. Even Mexico’s first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum, applauded Bosch in a press conference. She emphasized the importance of women raising their voices and standing up for their rights, reflecting a broader social movement toward female empowerment.
Meanwhile, Nawat later apologized for his remarks but maintained a front of defiance. This event isn’t the first instance of controversy in beauty pageants. Past competitions have faced backlash over various issues, from political conflicts to questions of fairness in judging.
In another incident this year, two judges resigning raised eyebrows, hinting at allegations of potential rigging—claims that were firmly denied by the organizers. Additionally, local police were investigating links to illegal online casino promotions related to the event’s marketing.
Mishaps and scandals have historically been part of the Miss Universe competition. For instance, the 2021 event faced criticism for taking place in Israel, stirring up controversy among supporters of different political causes.
Bosch’s win serves as a reminder that beauty pageants are evolving, focusing on empowerment and activism while navigating challenges.
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Sports, Beauty pageants, Entertainment, World news, General news, Article, 127739835
